1. What is BMI for Children?

The NHS Children's BMI calculator assesses whether a child's weight is healthy for their height, age and sex. Unlike adults, children's BMI is compared against growth charts to determine percentiles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula adjusted for age and gender percentiles:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Child's weight in kilograms
• \( height \) — Child's height in meters

Explanation: The result is compared against UK growth charts to determine the child's weight status percentile.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: Regular BMI monitoring helps identify potential weight problems in children, allowing for early intervention to prevent health issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing. For best accuracy, measurements should be taken at the same time of day.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What age range is this calculator for?
A: This tool is designed for children aged 2 to 18 years.

Q2: How often should I check my child's BMI?
A: Every 3-6 months is sufficient for most children unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Q3: What if my child is above the 91st percentile?
A: This suggests overweight - consult your GP or school nurse for advice on healthy lifestyle changes.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for children?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletic children may appear overweight when they're muscular.

Q5: Where can I get more detailed advice?
A: Visit the NHS website or consult your GP for personalized advice about your child's growth.