1. What is BMI for Children?

BMI (Body Mass Index) for children is a measure that adjusts weight for height. Unlike adults, children's BMI is age and sex-specific and is compared to growth charts to determine percentiles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Note: For children, the raw BMI value is compared to CDC growth charts by age and gender to determine percentiles.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI percentiles help identify underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity in children. Tracking BMI over time shows growth patterns.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in meters, and exact age (2-19 years). For most accurate results, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use BMI percentiles for children?
A: Children's body composition varies with age and sex, so percentiles account for normal growth patterns.

Q2: What do the percentiles mean?
A: Below 5th = underweight; 5th-85th = healthy weight; 85th-95th = overweight; Above 95th = obese.

Q3: How often should children's BMI be checked?
A: Annually is typical, more often if tracking growth concerns or weight management.

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

Q5: Where can I find CDC growth charts?
A: CDC growth charts are available at https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/