Body Mass Index (BMI)
The health and wellness of our children is a national priority. In Hopewell, we address our children’s health and wellness needs with a comprehensive approach that includes health screenings, physical activity programs, nutrition, and education. In compliance with Pennsylvania’s Growth Screening Program, a BMI result will be sent home each year. It includes your child’s height, weight, and BMI-for-Age percentile.
BMI-for-Age Percentile
The BMI-for-Age percentile is used as a screening tool to identify possible health risks such a diabetes, heart diseases, and asthma. The BMI-for-Age percentile assesses the size and growth patterns of individual children and teens compared to other kids their age. The BMI percentile has four categories:
|
Weight Status Category |
Percentile Range |
|
Under Weight |
Less than 5% |
|
Healthy Weight |
5% - 85% |
|
Over Weight |
85% - 95% |
|
Obese |
95% and greater |
Actions to Take
If your child’s BMI result is outside of the healthy weight percentile, either underweight, overweight, or obese, you should take the following actions:
- Schedule a checkup appointment with your doctor for your child.
- Take your child’s BMI result with you to the appointment.
- Ask your doctor to explain the results and make recommendations for your child's health.
The Pennsylvania Advocates for Nutrition and Activity (PANA) recommend following five healthy behaviors daily, to assist your child in maintaining a healthy weight. They are:
- One or more hours of physical activity
- Two or less hours of screen time (television and computer)
- Three balanced meals
- Four or more cups of water or low/no-calorie beverages
- Five or more servings of fruits and vegetables
Resources
If your child is not within the healthy weight category, please feel to contact your doctor and school nurse who can assist you with interventions at home and school.
*More information about this topic can be found at PA Department of Health - All The Buzz About BMI