The following 3 measurements of body size are commonly used in children:
- Weight: This is the most commonly used measure of body size as it is easy and accurate to weigh a child.
- Height or length: This is a very useful measure of size, especially in older children. However, it is more difficult to measure accurately. Height is measured with the child standing. In infants the measurement is taken lying down and is then called length. A child’s length and height are the same.
- Head circumference: This is also a useful measure of size but must be measured correctly.
Weight is the most common way of assessing body size in children.