Some Physical Measurements in the First Three Years of Life

Abstract

Means and mean increments of recumbent- length, weight, crown- rump length and head circumference are given for children from a longitudinal developmental study in London. The children were born in 1952-1954. Standard deviations and percentiles are given. Comparative lengths and weights, and increments of both, are given for samples of children born from 1923 to 1954. The secular trend for children to become larger continues. The relationship between early, late and adult life is discussed. There is very little relationship between size at 4 weeks and 1 year, but a good relationship between 1 year and 2 years. Size appears independent of rate of growth, which shows little relationship from any age to any age. Stem-stature indices are given and comparisons with other samples made. Their usefulness is discussed.