Children do NOT grow steadily from age 6 to 18. This is something many parents misunderstand. Growth happens in spurts. There are phases where suddenly, over a few months, the child starts growing rapidly in height. Then there may be long periods where almost nothing changes.
In medicine, its called Peak Height Velocity (PHV). I have seen this even in my own sons.
My older son started his growth spurt around 11 and completed most of his height growth by 14.
My younger son started much later and completed his growth closer to 18. Both were completely normal.
This is why comparing children at one particular age is not very useful. Now naturally, the question parents ask is → “What should we do to help children reach their full height potential?”
Three things matter most during growth phases:
→ Adequate calorie intake.
→ Good quality protein.
→ Regular physical activity.
Nothing fancy. And please understand height is largely genetic. A few inches here or there do not determine a child’s confidence, success, personality, intelligence or future.
As parents, our role is not to obsess over height. Our role is to support healthy growth, healthy habits and healthy self-esteem.