Understanding Your Child’s Growth

When we check your child’s growth, we look at both height and weight. We use a chart called BMI-for-age to see if their weight is healthy for their age and gender. We also look at how your child grows over time. 

If the BMI number is higher than most children their age:

• Your child may be overweight if their BMI falls between the 85th (orange) and 95th (red) percentile lines.
• Your child may have obesity if their BMI is above the 95th (red) percentile line.

Our goal is to talk about health in a kind and supportive way. We focus on healthy habits, not just numbers.

Complications of Childhood Obesity

When children and young people are above their healthiest weight, they face a higher risk of developing serious health problems. These can affect both their physical and emotional wellbeing, and may continue into adulthood.

Possible complications include:

• High blood pressure (Hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease (Cardiovascular disease)
• Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Breathing difficulties during sleep (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea)
• Hip and joint problems
• Mental health challenges
• Low self-esteem
• Reduced quality of life
• Disordered eating patterns
• Relationship difficulties
• Interruptions to learning and school performance