1. What is Children's BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) for children is calculated the same way as for adults, but the interpretation is different. Children's BMI is age and sex-specific and is compared to growth charts to determine a percentile ranking.

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 BMI value must be plotted on CDC growth charts to determine the BMI-for-age percentile.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation for Children

Details: BMI is the most widely accepted method to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. For children, BMI percentiles are the most commonly used indicator to assess size and growth patterns.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age in years (2-19), and select gender. The calculator will compute BMI which should then be compared to CDC growth charts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use BMI for children?
A: BMI is an inexpensive and easy-to-perform screening tool for potential weight problems in children.

Q2: What are the BMI categories for children?
A: Underweight (<5th percentile), Healthy weight (5th-85th), Overweight (85th-95th), Obese (≥95th percentile).

Q3: How often should children's BMI be measured?
A: The AAP recommends BMI calculation at least annually for all children ages 2 years and older.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for children?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass and may not reflect body fat distribution.

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