Complete Guide to Average Height And Weight For Children (Ages 6–12)

Childhood growth follows a more predictable pattern, typically adding 2-2.5 inches (6-7 cm) in height and 4-7 pounds (2-3 kg) in weight each year [1]. So, what is the average height and weight for children between the ages of 6 and 12? Keep scrolling to get the answer!

* Note: The following growth chart provides averages, not absolutes. What matters most is that your child is growing steadily over time, not where they land on any given measurement day.

Key Takeaways

• Children ages 6-12 grow steadily each year, and girls around ages 10-12 may appear taller than boys because they enter puberty sooner.

• Growth varies widely, but average height and weight charts help parents track general patterns over time.

• Early puberty signs (ages 10-12) are normal, but parents should consult a pediatrician if puberty starts too early or if growth slows unexpectedly.

• Healthy growth relies on balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, strong mental health support, and limited screen time.

• Height growth supplements for kids 6-12 may help fill nutritional gaps when recommended by a pediatrician.

Average Height and Weight for Children 6-12 Years

Tracking your child's length and weight is a great way to monitor their normal growth. Here's a breakdown of the average height and weight for children, highlighting the changes that occur as they transition from early childhood into the pre-adolescent years.

* The data is sourced from Disabled World.

Average height and weight for 6 year olds

At the age of 6, many children are just starting elementary school, and growth patterns between boys and girls are still quite similar. In some cases, boys tend to be slightly heavier on average.

• 6-year-old girls: The average height is 45.5 inches (115.5 cm), and the average weight is 44.0 lbs (19.96 kg).

• 6-year-old boys: The average height is around 45.5 inches (115.5 cm), and the average weight is 45.5 lbs (20.64 kg).

Average height and weight for 7 year olds

At age 7, children become more coordinated and may develop new physical skills, which can result in increased activity levels. Their bodies are still growing steadily, yet the growth rate begins to slow a little.

• 7-year-old girls: They typically reach about 47.7 inches (121.1 cm) and weigh around 49.5 lbs (22.45 kg).

• 7-year-old boys: The average height is 48.0 inches (121.9 cm), and the average weight is 50.5 lbs (22.9 kg).

Average height and weight for 8 year olds

At the age of 8, growth continues at a stable pace. Girls and boys remain similar in size during this year.

• 8-year-old girls: They are around 50.5 inches (128.2 cm) and typically weigh 57.0 lbs (25.85 kg).

• 8-year-old boys: They usually measure 50.4 inches (128 cm) and weigh about 56.5 lbs (25.63 kg).

Average height and weight for 9 year olds

By age 9, some early-developing children, especially girls, may begin showing the first signs of approaching puberty. This is often when parents first notice their child's feet growing faster than the rest of their body, a classic sign that a growth spurt is on the horizon. But most won't start their growth spurt for another year or two.

• 9-year-old girls: They typically reach about 52.5 inches (133.3 cm) and weigh 62.0 lbs (28.12 kg).

• 9-year-old boys: The average height is 52.5 inches (133.3 cm), and boys at this age typically weigh 63.0 lbs (28.58 kg).

Average height and weight for 10 year olds

At age 10, boys and girls are nearly identical in average measurements. While some girls may start their early puberty phase, most boys are still a year or two away.

• 10-year-old girls: Most are about 54.5 inches (138.4 cm) and weigh around 70.5 lbs (31.98 kg).

• 10-year-old boys: The average height is 54.5 inches (138.4 cm), and the average weight is 70.5 lbs (32 kg).

Average height and weight for 11 year olds

By age 11, gender differences begin to emerge more clearly as many girls start entering their puberty growth spurt earlier than boys; some will begin menstruating during this year or the next. You can notice girls outpace boys temporarily in height and weight during this time.

• 11-year-old girls: They typically reach about 56.7 inches (144 cm) and weigh approximately 81.5 lbs (36.97 kg).

• 11-year-old boys: They average about 56.5 inches (143.5 cm) and weigh 78.5 lbs (35.6 kg).

Average height and weight for 12 year olds

At age 12, the transition into the teenage years is well underway. Most girls have begun puberty, while boys are just starting or about to start their major growth phase.

• 12-year-old girls: They reach an average height of 59.0 inches (149.8 cm) and weigh around 91.5 lbs (41.5 kg).

• 12-year-old boys: They average about 58.7 inches (149.1 cm) and weigh 88.0 lbs (39.92 kg).

Girls are typically taller and heavier than boys at this age because they've started their puberty growth spurt earlier. Boys will catch up and eventually surpass girls in the coming teenage years, typically between ages 13-15.

Understanding Early Puberty Signs (Ages 10-12)

As children approach ages 10-12, it's common for them to show the very first signs of puberty. These early changes can feel confusing or even embarrassing, which is why parents need to understand what's normal and what to expect. With the right information, you can help your child feel confident and prepared as their body begins to mature.

What happens at the beginning of puberty?

Between ages 10 and 12, hormones begin sending signals that tell the body it's time to start transitioning into adolescence. These hormonal changes influence both height and weight, setting the stage for a child's upcoming growth spurt.

For girls (typically starting ages 10-11)

Girls tend to enter puberty earlier than boys, and the first signs are usually more noticeable.

• Breast budding is usually the first visible sign.

• Height growth begins to speed up.

• Body shape gradually becomes more mature.

For boys (typically starting ages 11-12)

In boys, early puberty signs are usually more subtle at first.

• Early changes may be less visible.

• Height may begin increasing at a slightly faster rate.

• Appetite often increases noticeably.

When should parents be concerned?

Early puberty is normal for some children, but certain signs may indicate that puberty is happening too early or that growth may be slowing down. You should consider talking with your pediatrician if you notice:

• For girls: Breast development or pubic hair before age 8

• For boys: Testicular enlargement or pubic hair before age 9

• Rapid growth spurts much earlier than peers

Also, other growth signs that parents should consider include:

• Growth rate suddenly slows or stops

• Child drops far below their usual growth curve

• Sudden, unexplained weight loss or gain

• Bone or joint pain during growth

• No measurable growth for 6-12 months

Remember, every child develops at their own pace. Some are early bloomers, others are late bloomers, and both patterns can be completely healthy. Pediatricians rely on long-term growth charts to track progress and compare your child to their own growth history, not just population averages.

If you have concerns about your child's growth or development, don't hesitate to discuss them with your pediatrician. They can determine whether your child's growth pattern is within normal ranges or if any evaluation is needed.

How to Promote Healthy Growth in Children Aged 6-12?

Supporting your child's healthy growth goes far beyond tracking numbers on a chart. The lifestyle habits built during ages 6-12 form the foundation for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being as they enter adolescence.

Here are the essential ways parents can actively support optimal development during these important years.

Have a balanced diet

A well-rounded, nutrient-rich diet is one of the most important factors in healthy growth. Children ages 6-12 need consistent energy, vitamins, and minerals to support rapid development.

Let's learn how to help your child build strong, healthy eating habits!

• Make sure your child's diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide the essential nutrients needed for bone growth, muscle development, and brain function.

• Calcium and vitamin D are key nutrients for building strong bones. Offer dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese, or fortified non-dairy alternatives. Vitamin D from sunlight or fortified foods helps the body absorb calcium effectively.

• Regular meals and healthy snacks can keep your child energized throughout the day and ensure they're getting the nutrition they need. Breakfast is especially important because it supports concentration and jump-starts metabolism.

• Encourage your child to drink water regularly to stay hydrated. 6-8 cups of water per day and even more on hot days are recommended to support all bodily functions.

• Some children may have nutritional gaps due to picky eating, dietary restrictions, or increased activity levels. In these cases, a pediatrician may suggest safe, age-appropriate growth supplements to strengthen healthy growth and bone development.

Encourage physical activity

Just as healthy eating fuels growth, staying active keeps your child's bones, muscles, and overall health thriving. The question is, how much activity do kids need? Children aged 6-12 should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day [2].

Which activities should kids frequently join?

• Aerobic activities that get the heart pumping like running, biking, swimming, dancing, soccer, basketball, or even tag.

• Muscle-strengthening activities at least 3 days per week. Try climbing playground equipment, doing push-ups or sit-ups, gymnastics, or resistance exercises.

• Bone-strengthening activities, such as jumping rope, tennis, or basketball, for at least 3 days per week.

Note: Not every child is naturally athletic, and that's okay. The goal is to help them find movement they enjoy so physical activity becomes a lifelong habit, not a chore.

Establish a healthy sleep routine

While daytime nutrition and activity shape your child's growth, sleep is where much of the true development happens. During deep sleep, the body releases growth hormone, repairs tissues, strengthens the immune system, and consolidates learning from the day. If children don't get enough sleep, they may experience slowed growth, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, and behavioral issues.

How much sleep do children need? Aim for 9-11 hours of sleep per night for children aged 6-12, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Creating a sleep-friendly environment is also a must:

• Set consistent bed and wake times (an ideal bedtime is between 8:00-9:00 PM, with wake-up times around 6:00-7:00 AM), even on weekends.

• Create a wind-down routine 30-60 minutes before bed, including dim lights, quiet activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to calm music

• Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet (65-68°F is ideal). Use blackout curtains if needed.

• Remove screens from bedrooms, such as TVs, tablets, smartphones, and gaming devices, as they disrupt melatonin and sleep cycles.

• Avoid caffeine found in sodas, chocolate, and some teas, especially in the afternoon and evening

• Encourage active play during the day, but avoid intense exercise right before bedtime.

Support your children's mental health

Do you know that mental and emotional development also play a vital role for healthy growth? Yes, children aged 6-12 begin navigating more complex social situations, emotions, and school pressures. It's necessary to create a supportive environment that helps them develop their confidence and resilience.

• Create an environment where your child feels comfortable. Regular conversations about their day, how they're feeling, and what they're thinking will allow them to process their emotions in a healthy way.

• Help your children develop coping mechanisms for dealing with stress or frustration. Activities like deep breathing, drawing, or taking a walk can help them calm down and work through their feelings.

• Praise your child's efforts, not just the outcomes. Encouraging them to try new things and acknowledging their hard work fosters a growth mindset and helps build confidence.

• Let your child engage with others through group activities, sports, or family gatherings to improve their social skills and friendships.

Limit screen time

In today's digital world, managing screen time is essential for both mental and physical well-being. Too much screen use can lead to eye strain, sleep problems, poor posture, inactivity, anxiety and sleep disruption.

• Children ages 6-12 should have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time per day, including TV, video games, and computer use. Encourage outdoor play and physical activity as alternatives to screen time.

• Establish tech-free areas in your home, like the dining room or bedrooms, to encourage family interaction and healthy habits. This also helps your child sleep better, as screens can interfere with the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone.

• Children are more likely to follow your example than your advice. Set a good example by managing your own screen time and encouraging other activities that promote face-to-face interactions and physical activity.

In conclusion,

Understanding the average height and weight for children 6-12 years helps parents recognize what typical growth looks like and when to seek guidance if something seems off. While growth charts provide helpful benchmarks, every child grows at their own pace, and steady progress over time is what matters most. By supporting your child with balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, healthy sleep habits, emotional support, and mindful screen use, you can help them stay on track and reach their full growth potential throughout these important years.

References

[1] Children's Hospital of Orange County. (n.d.). Growth & development: 6 to 12 years (school age). Rady Children's Health. https://choc.org/ages-stages/6-to-12-years/ rel="nofollow"

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, January 8). Child activity: An overview. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/children.html

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