1. What is BMI for Kids?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that uses height and weight to estimate body fat. For children, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age. Unlike adults, children's BMI is compared to growth charts to determine percentiles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

The result is then compared to NSW growth charts to determine the percentile range.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: Regular BMI monitoring helps identify potential weight problems in children. Early detection of overweight or underweight conditions allows for timely intervention and healthy lifestyle changes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing. The calculator is designed for children aged 2-18 years.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use percentiles for children instead of fixed BMI values?
A: Children's body composition changes as they grow, so percentiles account for normal growth patterns based on age and sex.

Q2: What are the percentile categories?
A: Below 5th = underweight; 5th-85th = healthy weight; 85th-95th = overweight; 95th and above = obese.

Q3: When should I be concerned about my child's BMI?
A: Consult a healthcare provider if your child is below 5th percentile or above 85th percentile consistently.

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

Q5: How often should I calculate my child's BMI?
A: Routine measurements during annual check-ups are typically sufficient unless recommended otherwise by a doctor.