How do you decide if you should measure the height or the length of a child?

Normally, if you are measuring a child <2 years old, you should measure the child’s length lying down (recumbent) using a measuring board with a sliding foot piece. You should also measure the recumbent length of a child if he or she cannot stand even if aged 2 years or older. Then subtract 0.7cm to convert the result to height, as the standing height is about 0.7cm less than recumbent length.

You can use a measuring board with a sliding foot piece for measuring length. Before measuring a child, make sure that the equipment is properly calibrated and is in good working order. To get accurate results at least two people should work together for the measurement. If necessary, the child’s parent can serve as the second measurer.

Click next and try the steps for measuring length with Nkosi, who is 8 months old.