During adolescence, kids experience growth spurts at different times, and it’s common for some to be shorter or taller than their peers at any given moment. Boys, for example, usually hit their growth spurt a bit later than girls, often between the ages of 13 and 15. Meanwhile, girls tend to experience their most significant growth between ages 11 and 13. This difference in timing can explain why some boys may still be shorter than girls at this age.

Other factors such as diet, physical activity, and sleep quality also play a vital role in how much and how quickly a teenager grows. Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins can support healthy growth. Likewise, staying active and getting enough rest helps the body grow and develop properly.

In the end, height is just one aspect of development, and being taller or shorter than the average at 13 is perfectly normal. Every child grows at their own pace, and height can continue to change well into their late teens.