Child’s BMI
Body weight assessment for children from 2 to 18 years old according to WHO standards
to get a BMI calculation
Child's BMI body mass index (WHO)
👶 Why is a child’s BMI calculated differently?
Many parents make the mistake of using conventional formulas. But a child’s body grows unevenly. What is considered “overweight” for an adult may be normal for a 10-year-old.
📏 How to get an accurate result?
For correct calculation, the accuracy of the source data is important. An error of 1-2 cm in height can greatly distort the picture (percentile).
1. Measuring height
Under 2 years: lying down, from head to toes.
Over 2 years:standing against a wall, without shoes. Heels, shoulder blades and the back of the head are pressed against the wall.
2. Indicate the exact age
The standards change every month. If you do not remember the exact age in months, use our child's age calculator to clarify.
📊 Decoding results (Percentiles)
Our calculator doesn't just give you a number, it gives you a “percentile”—a comparison of your child with thousands of other children of the same age.
| Zone | What does this mean? |
|---|---|
| < 5th percentile | Weight deficiency. It is recommended to consult a pediatrician and check your diet using calorie calculator. |
| 5 - 85th percentile | Green zone (Normal). Physical development is harmonious. |
| 85 - 95th percentile | The risk of being overweight. It is worth paying attention to activity and sweets. |
| > 95th percentile | Obesity. Consultation with an endocrinologist is required. You can calculate the approximate time for weight correction, but only under the supervision of a doctor. |
Parents' Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ How does a child’s BMI differ from an adult’s?
Adult BMI is a fixed number (for example, 25 is always overweight). For children, everything depends on age. A BMI of 18 for a 6-year-old child is high (obesity), but for a 15-year-old child it is low (deficiency). That's why we use WHO tables and not just a formula.
❓ How often should you measure your child?
• 0-2 years: every month (dynamics are important).
• 2-6 years:every six months.
• Schoolchildren:once a year is enough (for example, before school).
❓ Why is a “Below Average” result the norm?
Many parents are scared by the words “below average.” But in medicine, a wide corridor (from the 5th to the 85th percentile) is considered the norm. If the child is active, eats well and sleeps, slight thinness is not a pathology.
❓ The calculator showed “Obesity”, what should I do?
First, double-check your height and weight. Secondly, do not put your child on a strict diet yourself! A child's body is growing and needs nutrients. Contact your pediatrician - often the problem can be solved simply by increasing activity and reducing the amount of "fast" carbohydrates.