Routine growth assessment of children

All children who come into contact with NSW Health facilities will now have their height/length and weight measured as part of a child’s health assessment.

It’s not always easy to tell if a child is growing at a healthy weight for their age and height. Children and teenagers need to grow, but they are healthiest if they stay within a certain weight range as they grow. This is called a healthy weight for their age. To help determine if your child is growing at a healthy weight for their age, your healthcare team will measure your child’s height/length and weight and plot the measurements on a Body Mass Index (BMI)-for-age chart.

This enables your healthcare team to take early action if they notice your child’s growth is deviating away from a healthy weight. Health professionals can offer tips and advice on healthy habits to help your child’s growth remain on track and provide a referral for further support, if appropriate.

 Resources for families

• 8 Healthy Habits - 8 simple steps to help your family lead a healthy lifestyle
• Healthy habits and a healthy weight – Tips for your child and family
• See how they grow poster - English
• See how they grow poster - Translated

Contact Us

For more information please contact: SESLHD-HPS-Administration@health.nsw.gov.au