1. What is BMI for Children?

Body Mass Index (BMI) 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. It's compared to growth charts to determine percentile ranking.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

The result is then compared to Australian growth charts for girls to determine the percentile ranking.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: Tracking BMI in children helps identify potential weight problems that may lead to health issues. Percentiles show how a child's BMI compares to others of the same age and sex.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age in years (2-18 years). Measurements should be as accurate as possible for reliable results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What do the percentiles mean?
A: Percentiles show how a child's BMI compares to others. Below 5th may indicate underweight, 85th-95th overweight, and above 95th obese.

Q2: Is BMI accurate for all children?
A: BMI is a screening tool but doesn't directly measure body fat. Athletic children may have high BMI due to muscle mass.

Q3: How often should BMI be checked?
A: Regular monitoring (every 6-12 months) helps track growth patterns, but consult a healthcare professional for interpretation.

Q4: What if my child is above the 85th percentile?
A: Consult a healthcare provider for evaluation. They may assess diet, activity levels, and other health indicators.

Q5: Are there different charts for boys and girls?
A: Yes, this calculator uses charts specifically for Australian girls. Boys have separate growth charts.