Children's BMI is interpreted differently than adults because body composition changes as kids grow.
Why It's Different
Children's BMI uses percentiles based on age and gender, not fixed cutoffs. A BMI that's normal for a 10-year-old might be concerning for a 5-year-old.
BMI Percentile Categories
- Underweight: Less than 5th percentile
- Healthy weight: 5th to 85th percentile
- Overweight: 85th to 95th percentile
- Obese: 95th percentile or higher
What Parents Can Do
Focus on healthy habits, not weight. Provide nutritious meals, encourage active play, limit screen time, and model healthy behaviors.
When to Seek Help
Consult your pediatrician if your child's BMI percentile changes significantly or if you have concerns about their growth or eating habits.
Use Our Calculator
Our Children & Teens mode uses CDC growth charts to calculate accurate BMI percentiles for ages 2-20.