When you have a child, you can't help but wonder what he'll look like when he's older -- including how tall he'll be. Height is determined by a number of variables, including genetics, ethnicity, nutrition and the presence of any chronic medical problems, says Anne Matthews, R.N., Ph.D., of the Case Western Reserve University College of Medicine. While many of those things are outside parental control, it's natural to want your child to grow healthfully and well. Keep these guidelines in mind to ensure healthy growth in children.
Step 1
Consult your family doctor or your child's pediatrician regarding your child's growth and health. Typically, your child's growth and height are monitored by your family's physician at key points from birth throughout childhood. This helps you and your physician determine if your child's growth is on track compared to other children her age.
Step 2
Feed your child a healthy, balanced diet comprising high-nutrient foods from all major food groups. Fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, lean meats and poultry, fish, dairy products, and healthy fats are all components of a healthy diet, providing the nutrients your child needs to grow to an appropriate height.
Step 3
Encourage your child to be physically active every day. The Virginia Cooperative Extension states that, along with good nutrition, regular activity is necessary for your child to grow properly. Children should ideally get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day, says The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Step 4
Ask your family doctor about a vitamin-mineral supplement. Some children need a daily multivitamin to cover nutritional gaps in their diets. However, consult your physician before giving your child any nutritional supplement.
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