1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure that uses height and weight to estimate body fat. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Note: For children and teens, BMI is interpreted relative to age and sex norms.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation for Kids

Details: BMI is an important screening tool for potential weight problems in children. It helps identify weight categories that may lead to health problems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age in years. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with minimal clothing and no shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is children's BMI different from adults?
A: Children's BMI is age- and sex-specific because their body composition varies as they grow.

Q2: What are healthy BMI ranges for children?
A: Healthy ranges vary by age and sex. Generally between 5th and 85th percentiles on growth charts.

Q3: When should I be concerned about my child's BMI?
A: If BMI is below 5th percentile (underweight) or above 85th percentile (overweight), consult a healthcare provider.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for children?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletic children might have high BMI without excess fat.

Q5: How often should I check my child's BMI?
A: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are recommended, typically annually unless concerns arise.