Growth Charts: Frequently Asked Questions

Growth Charts: FAQs

How are the new growth charts different?

The new charts are based on the World Health Organisation (WHO) Child Growth Standards, which describe the optimal growth for healthy, breast fed children. Previous UK growth charts were based on data from studies on breast and formula fed children so do not reflect normal weight fluctuations of breast fed children in the first few weeks. The new charts combine UK90 and WHO data. There are clear instructions on how to measure, plot and interpret the chart, the new features include: an adult height predictor, a BMI (Body Mass Index) converter and guidance on gestational age correction. For more information please read our factsheet how are the new growth charts different? (PDF, 497KB) 

When are the growth charts used?

The UK-WHO growth charts should be used for all new births and referrals in England from May 2009 and in Scotland from January 2010. The existing UK90 growth charts can continue to be used for children born before these dates and for children over the age of four. For more information please read our factsheet what are growth charts? (PDF, 235KB) 

How do I use the growth charts correctly?

If you are a parent/carer or healthcare professional, please visit the materials page for written and video descriptions about how to use the growth charts. The existing UK90 Growth Charts can continue to be used for children born before this date and for children over 4 yeaThe existing UK90 Growth Charts can continue to be used for children born before this date and for children over 4 years. The existing UK90 Growth Charts can continue to be used for children born before this date and for children over 4 years.  Measuring and plotting - Factsheet (PDF, 2,404KB) 

For more information please read our factsheet on measuring and plotting(PDF, 2.4MB) 

Where can I find high resolution images of the growth charts?

If you wish to download high resolution copies of the growth charts, please email growth.charts@rcpch.ac.uk.

Where can I order hard copies of the growth charts?

The RCPCH do not send out hard copies but if you would like to order them, please contact the email address above with your enquiry about ordering hard copies.

Where can I download the plotting software for the growth charts?

If you would like the excel spreadsheets and accompanying instructions of how to use the plotting software, please email growth.charts@rcpch.ac.uk.

 Additonal information about infants

Please refer to the factsheets below.

Newborn Infants - Factsheet (PDF, 583KB)

Pre-term Infants - Factsheet (PDF, 650KB)

Infants and toddlers - Factsheet (PDF, 556KB)

NICM - Factsheet (PDF, 1,008KB)

Feedback

We appreciate your feedback, if you have any comments or queries please email us on growth.charts@rcpch.ac.uk