Glossary · Growth

Percentile crossing

When a child's weight or height curve crosses one or more percentile lines on the growth chart, either upward or downward, over time. A single crossing in early infancy is often normal; persistent crossing in either direction is a signal to investigate, especially when downward.

Related terms

BMI percentile (children)
Growth chart
Growth spurt
Catch-up growth
Failure to thrive
Childhood obesity

Miriel uses this concept across food scans, meal plans, and AI Coach responses where it is relevant to a child's profile. For the underlying clinical and scientific basis, see the research page.