A child's heart rate can say a lot about her health. Your child's doctors should routinely check her heart rate to make sure her heart operating within a normal range and does not have an abnormal rhythm. As a parent, you can monitor your child's heart rate to make sure her heart is pumping within a normal range. Most children between the ages of 6 and 15 have resting heart rates between 70 and 100 beats per minute.
Step 1
Have your child sit down and relax for several minutes prior to taking his pulse. This allows his heart to slow down to a resting heart rate, which is what physicians check when your child goes in for a check-up.
Step 2
Place the tips of your index and middle fingers on the palm side of the wrist, about an inch below her hand. Feel around gently until you can feel for the pulse well.
Step 3
Count the number of beats over a period of 15 seconds, using a clock or timer.
Step 4
Multiply the number found in Step 2 by four. This is your child's number of heart beats per minute.
Step 5
Perform this check two or three times to make sure your findings are accurate.
Tips and Warnings
- You can also check your child's heart rate during exercise or physical activity to monitor your child'soverall workload. This can help you gauge how much exercise he is enjoying, and whether or not he is giving his heart and body a good workout.
- If you have concerns about your child's heart rate, contact his doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Timer or clock
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