Understanding Child BMI
Unlike adult BMI, child BMI is interpreted using age and sex-specific percentiles because body composition changes as children grow. The CDC growth charts are used for children ages 2-20.
BMI-for-Age Percentile Categories
- Underweight: Below 5th percentile
- Healthy Weight: 5th to 84th percentile
- Overweight: 85th to 94th percentile
- Obese: 95th percentile or above
Important Notes
BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool. A high or low BMI does not necessarily mean a health problem. Talk to your child's pediatrician for a complete assessment including diet, physical activity, and family history.