Cebu City - The continuation of the Tips on how to measure length or height of children: 0-23 Month children, this part will give the readers tips and steps in measuring the height of children over 23 months. These children are most likely to be measured while standing. 

When using a height board in measuring a standing child, make sure that the set-up has been prepared and ready, place the board vertically against a wall or pillar on a flat, firm surface. The board can be made to stand at a 90° angle to the floor by using a leveling tool. If using a stadiometer, make sure the stadiometer is perfectly level or perpendicular to the floor by adjusting the spacer at the top of the device.

Before measuring, clean and sanitize the board. Take off any shoes and head/hair jewelry that can affect the measurement and might add up to the actual height of the child. Help the child stand on the baseboard of the board with their feet slightly apart and their backs against the board while bending over at the knees on their right side.

Check that the child is positioned correctly by seeing if the heel and the tip of the shoulders are in line. Inspect whether the heels, calves, buttocks, back of the head, and shoulder blades touch the board. Hold the child's knees and legs in position, ask the assistant or the mother or other caregiver. Check the child's position before taking the measurement, and make any required adjustments. If a child has trouble standing up straight, you can assist them by gently pressing on their stomach.

Carefully lower the movable headpiece while supporting the child's chin. Make sure the line of sight is perpendicular to the surface. Before taking the measurement, ensure that the hair is pressed down. The assistant should record the measurement on the OPT Plus Recording Sheet after the measurer reads it aloud (to the nearest 0.1cm). Ensure the accuracy of the height measurement. This ends the tips on how to properly measure the length/height of children 0-59 months. // DMOII Christine Lopez, RND