How to Calculate Body Mass Index for a Toddler

Body Mass Index, commonly referred to as BMI, is a number that is calculated based on a person's height and weight. The BMI number is used to determine if a person is at a healthy weight for his height. According to the Nemours Foundation, a toddler's body mass index not only can help determine if a child is at a healthy weight, but can also be used to compare the child's growth pattern to that of other children of the same age.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure Scale

Instructions

1. Remove any shoes or heavy clothing from the toddler.

2. Measure the child's height in inches.

3. Use a scale to determine the child's weight in pounds.

4. Divide the child's height in inches by the child's weight in pounds. This number is the toddler's BMI.

5. Compare the BMI to a reliable weight chart for toddlers to determine if the toddler is in a healthy weight range (see Resources).

Tips & Warnings

• Take the toddler to a doctor to ultimately determine if the toddler is at a healthy weight.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Nemours Foundation Kid's Health Site
• Center for Disease Control BMI Chart