A child's ideal weight can be determined from charts or calculators using the height, weight and sex. The measurement of obesity may be performed by using the body mass index (BMI).

BMI Facts

• A child with a BMI that is between 18 and 24.9 is normal.
• A child with a BMI over 25 is considered obese.
• The higher the BMI, the greater the risk for a variety of diseases including diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
• The BMI should be checked every two years.
• Those who are very tall or very muscular may have a calculated BMI that is more difficult to interpret.