1. What is BMI for Children?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that adjusts body weight for height. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age. The CDC recommends using BMI-for-age growth charts to track growth patterns in children.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

For children, this value is then plotted on CDC growth charts to determine the percentile for age and sex.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI-for-age is the recommended indicator for screening overweight and obesity in children and teens. It helps identify potential weight problems that may lead to health issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age in years (2-19), and select gender. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 2-19).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is BMI different for children than adults?
A: Children's body composition varies as they grow, so BMI must be interpreted relative to other children of the same age and sex.

Q2: What do the BMI percentiles mean?
A: Underweight (<5th percentile), Healthy weight (5th-85th), Overweight (85th-95th), Obese (≥95th percentile).

Q3: How often should children's BMI be checked?
A: The AAP recommends BMI screening at least annually for all children and adolescents.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for children?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Very muscular children may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q5: What should I do if my child's BMI is high?
A: Consult with a pediatrician who can evaluate growth patterns over time and consider other factors.