1. What is BMI for UK Children?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure of weight relative to height. For UK children, BMI is compared to growth charts to determine percentiles, accounting for normal growth patterns by age and gender.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Measured in kilograms (with light clothing)
• \( height \) — Measured in meters (with shoes on)

Note: This calculator is adapted for UK children's growth references, where shoes are typically worn during height measurement.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in meters (e.g., 1.25 for 125cm), age in years (2-18), and gender. Measurements should be recent.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why measure height with shoes for UK children?
A: UK growth references typically include shoe height (usually 1-2cm) for practical clinical measurements.

Q2: What are healthy BMI percentiles for children?
A: Generally, 5th-85th percentile is healthy weight, but exact interpretation requires growth charts.

Q3: How often should children's BMI be checked?
A: Annual checks are typical, more frequently if tracking growth concerns.

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

Q5: Where can I find UK growth charts?
A: UK-WHO growth charts are available from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.