Children’s Clothing Sizes Explained Simply

Finding the right clothing size for children can often raise questions. Children grow at different rates, body proportions vary, and size charts can quickly cause uncertainty. On this page, we clearly explain how children’s clothing sizes are structured, what the difference is between body measurements and garment measurements, and how to measure your child correctly. This provides reliable guidance when choosing the right size for Steiff fashion – for optimal comfort and unrestricted freedom of movement in everyday wear.

Children’s clothing sizes are generally based on a child’s height. This means that the stated size refers to the child’s body height in centimetres, measured from the top of the head to the sole of the foot.

For example:
If a child wears size 104, they are approximately 104 cm tall. This size serves as a guideline and helps to classify clothing in a way that is appropriate for both age and growth.

Important to know:
A clothing size is not a guarantee of a perfect fit, but rather a point of reference. Every child has individual body proportions – some are slimmer, others more robust; some have longer legs, others a longer torso. High-quality children’s clothing is designed with these differences in mind.

Children’s clothing sizes usually increase in steps of 6 centimetres. This results in sizes such as 92, 98, 104, 110 or 116.

This structure is based on children’s natural growth patterns. In most age groups, children grow in relatively consistent stages, which is why 6 cm increments have become a practical standard. They provide clear orientation without making the size range unnecessarily complex.

However, it is important to note that not every child fits perfectly into these increments. Growth is individual – which is exactly why freedom of movement and comfort are so important in children’s clothing.

A children’s size chart helps to identify the appropriate clothing size based on a child’s height. It provides clear orientation and makes it easier to narrow down the initial size selection.

Please note:

• The chart is based on body measurements

• Age indications are guidelines only

• Actual fit depends on the child’s individual body shape

Always use size charts as a helpful guide rather than a fixed rule. Especially for fast-growing children, it can be useful to consider the next stage of growth as well.

For Babies:

M = month(s), Y = year(s)

For Children:

M = month(s), Y = year(s)

For Babies:

M = month(s), Y = year(s). For baby hats, some products may still show individual sizes. The switch to dual sizing is being introduced gradually.

For Children:

M = month(s), Y = year(s)

For Babies:

M = month(s), Y = year(s)

For Children:

M = month(s), Y = year(s)

For Babies:

 M = month(s), Y = year(s)

For Children:

M = month(s), Y = year(s)

For Babies:

 M = month(s), Y = year(s)

Accurate measurements are the best basis for choosing the right clothing size.

Tip: Measure your child regularly. Growth spurts often occur unexpectedly – especially during toddler and preschool years.

Note: On our product overview pages, you can filter the available items by clothing size. This allows you to see only the models that match the size you have determined for your child.

Many parents face the question of which size to choose when a child falls exactly between two clothing sizes.

In most cases, the following applies:

• It is better to choose the larger size

• More freedom of movement increases wearing comfort

• The clothing can be worn for a longer period of time

External factors can also play a role:

• Season (e.g. allowing room for warmer layers in winter)

• Type of garment (tops, trousers, jackets)

• Personal preferences regarding fit

A common cause of uncertainty when choosing the right size is the confusion between body measurements and garment measurements. These two terms describe different things and should not be used interchangeably.

Body measurements refer to the measurements of the child’s body itself. These include, among others:

• Body height

• Chest circumference

• Waist circumference

• Hip circumference

These measurements form the basis for the development of clothing sizes. They serve as a reference for designing children’s clothing with an appropriate fit.

Garment measurements describe the actual measurements of the finished garment. They vary depending on the type of product, the cut, the material and the intended fit.

Depending on the design, a garment may be deliberately cut with more room to allow freedom of movement, or it may fit close to the body – as is the case with items such as leggings or tights. In these cases, garment measurements are closely aligned with the body measurements or may even correspond to them.

Garment measurements should therefore not be equated with body measurements, but rather reflect the intended fit of the individual item.

Below, we answer frequently asked questions about children’s clothing sizes. These answers are intended to help you better understand size information, clarify common uncertainties and make an informed choice for your child.

If you have any further questions about our products or the online shop, please visit our FAQ page (UK | EU).