How to Measure Baby's Length | Parenting Hub
Length is best measured lying down until age 2. Learn how it's done at the MCH and why home measurements can be tricky.
Babies are measured lying flat until they can stand reliably. Even small differences in technique change the number.
How it's done at the MCH
Babies under 2 are measured lying down on a length board with the head against a fixed end and the legs held straight. From 2 years, they're measured standing up.
At home
- Lay baby flat on a firm surface
- Mark the top of the head and the heel with a pencil
- Measure the distance with a tape
- Repeat — small differences are normal
When to ask for advice
If you're worried about length not increasing or about leg length differences, ask your MCH nurse or GP for an in-clinic measurement.
When to seek help
- Any sudden change that worries you or feels off for your baby.
- Poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, or persistent irritability.
- Fever in a baby under 3 months, or any symptom that worsens quickly.