Kids' sizes are named after ages, so the label is a fair first guess. It is only a guess, because sizes are cut for height. This chart shows the size a kid of average height wears at each age.
Each row is a kid of average height halfway through that year, so the row for 5 is a kid who is five and a half. Taller kids will be a size ahead, and shorter kids a size behind.
| Age | Typical height | Boys wear | Boys gift size | Girls wear | Girls gift size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 35.5 to 36 in | 2T | 3T | 2T | 3T |
| 3 | 38.5 to 39 in | 3T | 4T | 3T | 4T |
| 4 | 41 to 41.5 in | 4T | 5 | 4T | 5 |
| 5 | 44 in | 5 | 6 | 5 | 6 |
| 6 | 46.5 in | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| 7 | 49 in | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| 8 | 51.5 in | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| 9 | 53.5 in | 8 | 10 | 8 | 10 |
| 10 | 55.5 in | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| 11 | 57.5 to 58 in | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| 12 | 60 to 61 in | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| 13 | 62.5 to 63 in | 14 | 16 | 14 | 14 |
If you know the height, skip the chart. The calculator gives the size for your kid, now and for the next two years.
Get the size for your kidIf you do not know the height, go by age and then go up. The gift size is the one that fits about six months later, which gives the kid time to grow into it. Too big gets worn eventually. Too small goes straight to the donation bag.
Ask for a height if you can. One number from a parent beats any chart.
A size 6 is cut for kids about 45 to 48 inches tall. A tall five-year-old and a short seven-year-old can both wear it. Brands also differ by about one size in either direction, so check the brand's own chart before you order.
We may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
One short email when each season's markdowns begin: coats in January, swimsuits in July, costumes on November 1. Nothing else.
Unsubscribe any time with the link in every email. How we use your email.