Many parents ask what is the average height for an 11 year old girl because this age marks an important stage in a child’s physical development. Around age 11, many girls begin early adolescence, and noticeable growth changes often occur. Some girls experience rapid growth spurts, while others grow more gradually, which can make comparisons with peers confusing or concerning for parents.
Understanding the average height for an 11 year old girl helps provide reassurance, context, and guidance. It allows parents to recognize what is typical, what variations are normal, and when it may be helpful to consult a pediatrician.
This comprehensive guide explains average height ranges, growth patterns, percentiles, puberty timing, influencing factors, and how height at age 11 fits into long-term development.
What Is the Average Height for an 11 Year Old Girl?
The average height for an 11 year old girl is:
56–58 inches (142–147 centimeters)
This equals approximately:
- 4 feet 8 inches to 4 feet 10 inches
- 1.42–1.47 meters
These values represent the 50th percentile, meaning about half of 11-year-old girls are taller and half are shorter.
Average Height for an 11 Year Old Girl in Different Units
To make comparisons easier, here is the average height in multiple units.
Average Height (Age 11 – Girls)
- Inches: 56–58 in
- Feet & inches: 4′8″–4′10″
- Centimeters: 142–147 cm
- Meters: 1.42–1.47 m
These figures are based on large-scale growth data from pediatric health organizations.
How Is the Average Height for an 11 Year Old Girl Determined?
Average height data comes from national and international growth studies conducted by organizations such as:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- National pediatric health surveys
How Height Is Measured
- Girls are measured without shoes
- Height is recorded using calibrated stadiometers
- Data is grouped by exact age and sex
- Thousands of measurements are averaged
This method ensures reliable and accurate results.
Why Height Varies at Age 11
At age 11, height differences are extremely common.
Common Reasons for Height Variation
- Puberty timing
- Genetics
- Nutrition
- Physical activity
- Overall health
Two healthy 11-year-old girls can differ in height by several inches and still fall within a normal range.
Growth and Puberty in 11 Year Old Girls
Puberty plays a major role in growth at this age.
Typical Puberty Changes at Age 11
- Breast development may begin or continue
- Growth spurts may start
- Body proportions begin to change
Girls often begin puberty earlier than boys, which explains why many girls at 11 are taller than boys the same age.
Average Height for an 11 Year Old Girl by Percentile
Doctors use growth percentiles to assess development.
Understanding Percentiles
- 50th percentile: Average height
- Below 5th percentile: Shorter than most peers
- Above 95th percentile: Taller than most peers
Typical Height Percentiles for 11 Year Old Girls
| Percentile | Height |
|---|---|
| 5th | ~52 in (132 cm) |
| 25th | ~54 in (137 cm) |
| 50th | ~56–58 in |
| 75th | ~59–60 in |
| 95th | ~63 in (160 cm) |
Being above or below average does not automatically mean there is a problem.
Is My 11 Year Old Girl Too Short?
In most cases, shorter height is normal.
Shorter Height Is Often Normal If:
- Parents are shorter
- Growth has been steady over time
- Puberty has not started yet
Doctors are more concerned about growth patterns, not single measurements.
Is My 11 Year Old Girl Too Tall?
Being taller than average at 11 is also common.
Taller Height Is Often Normal If:
- Puberty started early
- Parents are tall
- Growth spurts began sooner
Many tall 11-year-old girls eventually even out as others catch up.
How Fast Do 11 Year Old Girls Grow?
Growth speed varies depending on puberty stage.
Typical Growth Rate
- 2–3 inches per year before puberty
- 3–4 inches per year during growth spurts
Some girls may grow faster for short periods, then slow down again.
Average Height for an 11 Year Old Girl Compared to Other Ages
Looking at nearby ages helps put growth into context.
Average Height by Age (Girls)
| Age | Average Height |
|---|---|
| 9 | ~52 in |
| 10 | ~54 in |
| 11 | ~56–58 in |
| 12 | ~59–61 in |
| 13 | ~61–63 in |
Growth often accelerates between ages 11 and 13.
Does Height at Age 11 Predict Adult Height?
Height at age 11 does not perfectly predict adult height.
Why Predictions Are Difficult
- Puberty timing varies
- Growth spurts happen at different ages
- Genetics play the largest role
Some girls who are short at 11 may grow significantly later.
Genetics and Height in 11 Year Old Girls
Genetics account for 60–80% of adult height.
Genetic Factors Include
- Parents’ height
- Family growth patterns
- Ethnic background
Children often follow a similar growth curve to their parents.
Nutrition and Height at Age 11
Proper nutrition supports healthy growth.
Important Nutrients
- Protein
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Iron
- Zinc
A balanced diet supports growth but cannot override genetics.
Physical Activity and Growth
Exercise supports bone strength and posture.
Helpful Activities
- Running and sports
- Swimming
- Dancing
- Playground activities
Exercise does not make children taller than their genetic potential, but it supports healthy development.
Sleep and Growth in 11 Year Old Girls
Sleep is essential for growth.
Why Sleep Matters
- Growth hormone is released during sleep
- Poor sleep can affect development
Most 11-year-old girls need 9–11 hours of sleep per night.
Emotional Impact of Height Differences
Height differences can affect confidence.
How Parents Can Help
- Avoid constant comparisons
- Focus on health, not height
- Encourage positive self-image
Supportive environments help children feel confident regardless of height.
When Should Parents Be Concerned?
While variation is normal, some signs may require medical advice.
Talk to a Doctor If:
- Growth has stopped for a long time
- Height falls far below percentiles
- Puberty starts very early or very late
- Other health symptoms appear
Pediatricians use growth charts and history to assess concerns.
Average Height for an 11 Year Old Girl Around the World
Height averages vary by country.
Global Comparison (Girls Age 11)
| Country | Average Height |
|---|---|
| United States | ~56–58 in |
| United Kingdom | ~55–57 in |
| Japan | ~54–56 in |
| Netherlands | ~57–59 in |
| Mexico | ~55–57 in |
Differences reflect genetics, nutrition, and living conditions.
Cultural Expectations About Height at Age 11
Height expectations differ across cultures.
In many societies:
- Early growth is praised
- Late growth is considered normal
Medical professionals focus on healthy development, not social comparisons.
Summary: Average Height for an 11 Year Old Girl
- Average height: 56–58 inches (142–147 cm)
- Growth varies widely at this age
- Puberty timing plays a major role
- Percentiles matter more than averages
- Health and steady growth are key
The average height for an 11 year old girl is a helpful guideline, not a strict rule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average height for an 11 year old girl?
The average height is 56–58 inches (142–147 cm).
Is it normal for an 11 year old girl to be tall?
Yes. Early puberty and genetics can make girls taller at this age.
Is it normal for an 11 year old girl to be short?
Yes. Many girls grow later and still reach a normal adult height.
How much does an 11 year old girl grow in a year?
Most grow 2–4 inches per year, depending on puberty stage.
Should I worry if my child is not average height?
No. Doctors focus on growth trends, not exact averages.
Can an 11 year old girl grow taller after this age?
Yes. Many girls grow significantly during ages 12–15.
