It is September, and children are going back to school. Some little ones are going to school for the very first time. Whether students are returning to elementary school, high school or college, there are some tips about backpacks that are helpful for everyone.
Too heavy
It has been brought to the attention of many students that their backpacks are too heavy. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child's Backpack should weigh no more than 10 to 20 percent of a child's weight. In a lot of cases, elementary school children carry backpacks weighing between 20 to 30 pounds.
When parents purchase backpacks for their children, they should consider the weight and size of them without any contents. Even extra buckles, straps and handles add to the weight. Once the contents are included, the weight goes up far beyond the recommended limit.
The owners should realize that they are going to school and not on a camping trip. Some things can be left in lockers overnight if they are not needed for homework. It is good that some schools have tablets available for students' home use, so they do not have to carry heavy textbooks back and forth.
Students should avoid carrying unnecessary items. A suggestion is to keep supplies in their locker as well as at home. For instance, keep a box of tissues, bottles of lotion, and other things in both places to eliminate the need to carry things every day.
While one item might not make the weight go up that much, all the items together will increase the weight.
Distribute weight
Most backpacks have several compartments to hold things of different sizes and weight. Do not leave any compartment empty while another area is stuffed to capacity. Distribute the weight by using all of the compartments.
Make sure to put the heavier items like textbooks closest to the center.
Not worn properly
Backpacks are designed to distribute the weight on some of the body’s strongest muscles. However, if they are not worn properly, they may cause injury to muscles and joints, including the back, shoulders, and neck. It could also cause posture problems.
Parents should take notice to see where the child is wearing his backpack. It is called "backpack" for a reason. It should be worn on the back and not on another part of the body. Smaller children are seen carrying the pack on their hips, waist and even dragging it on the back of their legs. That's because the straps are not tight enough across the chest. The straps can be easily adjusted, so the pack is close to the body. They should be about two inches above the waist for a comfortable fit.