Why is it that my cousin outgrew me?

[Anonymous]

So around a year ago, my cousin came to visit me with his family. I’m 14 and I am around 1 month older than him. Back then we were both around 5’8. Then yesterday, he visited me again. Now I’m around 5’9-5’10 whereas he’s around 5’11. Why is this? Is there any reason behind why I am growing so slowly? I always used to be taller than him as a child, but now he has outgrown me. Is there an explanation.

[SkipStop]

Mostly genetics. People mature differently. I was short at first. Then a fast growth spurt. Then no difference for a while and suddenly another fast growth spurt. Just genetics.

[Asker]

Well I’m following a similar pattern as you. I was short when I was around 11, then I had a massive fast growth spurt at around age 11.5 to 12 that lasted like a year and a half. Since then, I have grown around an inch only. However, I haven’t had another “fast growth spurt” yet like you did. Is there any chance I might get it anytime soon?

[SkipStop]

Since you are well under 18, there is definitely a good chance. No need to worry though. Your height is not everything. And it's not a competition.

[Lauren-green]

It's just genetics. Some people shoot up and some take longer to grow. It comes down to your genes, how tall are your parents vs his?

[Asker]

His parents are both way taller than mine. I have rather short parents which makes me wonder why I am so tall compared to them. I had already surpassed my father in height when I was around age 13

[Lauren-green]

Yeah your cousin is gonna keep growing, you've probbaly reached your prime height. Sometimes children can grow a bit taller than their parents.

[Asker]

Why is it that I have already reached my prime height? I have read somewhere that boys will continue to grow until their at least 18, and that age 14 is too soon for boys to stop growing.

[Lauren-green]

I said "probably". You may continue growing, you may stop, you won't know until the future

[PondyPand]

Just genetics. Nothing special.

[Asker]

So does this mean that he will always be taller?

[PondyPand]

No. You could grow more. But maybe not. 🤷‍♀️ no guarantees.

[Pulimuli]

Genetics and nutrition

[Anonymous]

Puberty hits people faster than others.