Normal heart rate in children by age
Approximate awake ranges in beats per minute. Trend a value over time rather than treating a single reading.
| Age | Heart rate (beats per minute) |
|---|---|
| Newborn · 0-1 mo | 100-205 |
| Infant · 1-12 mo | 100-180 |
| Toddler · 1-2 yr | 98-140 |
| Preschool · 3-5 yr | 80-120 |
| School age · 6-11 yr | 75-118 |
| Adolescent · 12-15 yr | 60-100 |
Common questions
What is a normal heart rate for a child?
Newborn (0-1 mo): 100-205 beats per minute; Infant (1-12 mo): 100-180 beats per minute; Toddler (1-2 yr): 98-140 beats per minute; Preschool (3-5 yr): 80-120 beats per minute; School age (6-11 yr): 75-118 beats per minute; Adolescent (12-15 yr): 60-100 beats per minute.
Does heart rate change with age?
Yes. It falls steadily from newborn (100-205) to adolescent (60-100) beats per minute. Always interpret a value against the child's age.
About this page
Compiled from standard paediatric references. Interpret against the child's clinical state and the ranges used by your own institution or laboratory.
Spotted something wrong? Report an error on this page — corrections from clinicians are welcome and are reviewed before any change is published.
Last reviewed 2026-08-12.