We recently wrote to you about measuring your child’s height and weight as part of the National Child Measurement Programme. Here is your child’s result:
When compared to the national growth charts, which show whether a child is growing as expected for their age, sex and height, your child would be considered to be below a healthy weight.
We understand that discussing a child’s weight can be a sensitive matter and it is important that you know we weigh/measure your child and provide feedback without judgement. Informing you of your child’s result is helpful for you to know how your child is growing
Most children who are below a healthy weight are perfectly healthy but some can develop health and wellbeing problems.
Having information allows you to make informed choices about the best support you can provide to your child.
If you would like to speak to us about your child’s weight please call us on 0300 304 5555. However, if you have no concerns you need take no further action.
A good diet and physical activity are essential to maintaining a healthy weight and healthy growth. Visit https://www.nhs.uk/healthier-families/childrens-weight/ for lots of handy tips.
You can find out how your child’s result was calculated, and check how your child is growing over time, by going to www.nhs.uk/bmi.
This information has not been shared with your child, other children or school staff. Locally, this information is held by your Locala Health and Wellbeing/Kirklees Council and is treated confidentially.
The result is sent to you, so the decision of whether to talk to your child about it is entirely yours. More information is available on the NHS website.
Here is a useful guide on how to engage and interact with your child around the topic of health and weight.
We recognise that growth measurements alone is not an entire reflection of the health and wellbeing of children, however, it is the only measure we can use for the collection of data required by the government and local authorities to plan and prioritise services and care for our population.
Some medical conditions or treatment that your child is receiving may mean that BMI centile is not the best way to measure your child. Your GP or other health professional caring for your child will be able to discuss this with you.
If you wish to discuss these results with our 0-19 Team please contact 0300 304 5555.
