Measurement Conversion for Kids

Length measures how long or far something is. Metric units are based on multiples of 10.

• 1 m = 100 cm = 1,000 mm
• 1 km = 1,000 m
• 1 ft = 12 in
• 1 yd = 3 ft

To convert to a smaller unit, multiply. To convert to a larger unit, divide.

Mass tells you how much matter is in an object. It does not change depending on where you are.

• 1 kg = 1,000 g
• 1 lb = 16 oz
• A paper clip is about 1 g
• A loaf of bread is about 1 lb

Volume measures how much space a liquid or solid takes up.

• 1 L = 1,000 mL
• 2 cups = 1 pint
• 2 pints = 1 quart
• 4 quarts = 1 gallon

Think of it as a staircase: cups, pints, quarts, gallons. Each step up, the container holds more.

Time measures how long something takes. Unlike length or mass, time does not use base 10.

• 1 min = 60 sec
• 1 hr = 60 min
• 1 hr = 3,600 sec

Because time uses 60 instead of 10, it can be trickier. Practice helps it become second nature!