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.

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).