How to Read the Markings on a Height Rod

Height rods are used to take accurate measurements of children as they grow. They consist of a sliding measuring stick mounted on a wall with a bar that folds out. The subject stands in front of the bar and the person taking the measurement rests the bar on the top of the subject's head. Since the bar is at a right angle to the measuring stick on the wall, it provides a more accurate measurement than line of sight.

Instructions

• 1

  Extend the top pillar of the height rod to a level over the person's head if they are more than 48 inches tall.

• 2

  Swing the bar on the height rod outward.

• 3

  Have the person being measured stand straight against the wall. Lower the bar until it rests gently on the top of the person's head.

• 4

  Move the person away from the bar. If the subject is taller than 48 inches, read the measurement at the point where the upper pillar of the sliding pillar meets the lower pillar. If they are shorter than 48 inches, read the number at the bottom of the height rod arm.