Wall-Mounted Height Measuring Rod

Stadiometer

• A stadiometer consists of two pieces: the ruled measuring rod, marked with measurements in both standard and metric increments, and a headpiece. The headpiece may either be fixed in a position that is perpendicular to the wall and the measuring rod or flipped up or down into position. In either case, the headpiece is generally attached to the measuring rod in a way that allows it to slide up or down along the ruled surface.

Installation

• A wall-mounted height measuring rod is typically fastened to a wall over an uncarpeted floor. The best location lines up with a wall stud, though the measuring rod can be mounted with wall anchors if there is no stud available. Stadiometers that aren't designed to go all the way to the floor often come with a calibration piece of a specified length that helps you place the measuring rod at a standard height so its measurements are accurate. The calibration piece rests on the floor, and you place the measuring rod on top of it, check that the measuring rod is plumb with a carpenter's level then mark the screw holes for mounting. Remove the calibration piece, check for plumb one more time then install the measuring rod through the marked screw holes.

Proper Use

• To use a wall-mounted, height measuring rod correctly, the subject needs to first remove her shoes and any hair ornaments and outerwear. She should then stand up straight with the back of her head and body against the rod, feet together and looking straight ahead. The headpiece is then lowered to the top of the subject's head so her hair is pressed flat, and the measurement is noted to the nearest millimeter or 1/2-inch as required.

Alternatives

• If you don't want to invest in a stadiometer, there are other methods that serve the same purpose. You can simply mount a wooden yardstick or two to the wall with small screws to track your child's growth. Removable vinyl stickers printed with height measurements are also available, as are retractable measuring tapes that mount high on the wall and can be pulled down to the floor to take a measurement.