How to choose the correct backpack for your children

Attention All Parents!

Studies have shown that up to 64% of children suffer from back pain. Kids are carrying up to 30% of their body weight in their backpacks daily. This can cause neck and lower back pain, headaches, shoulder pain, postural changes, and even stress fractures!

The acceptable load in a backpack is related to your child’s weight. A 60 lbs. child can carry a maximum backpack weight of 5 lbs., 60-75 lbs. can carry 10 lbs., 100 lbs. can carry 15 lbs., 125 lbs. can carry 18 lbs., 150 lbs. can carry 20 lbs., and 200 lbs. can carry 25 lbs. NO ONE SHOULD CARRY MORE THAN 25 LBS. IN A BACKPACK.

Please follow the recommendations to prevent backpack injuries!
• Pack heavier items at the bottom to transfer the weight to the hips
• Pack flat items where they will rest on the back keeping bulky or pointy items from the back
• Use both shoulder straps
• Tighten the shoulder straps so that the backpack hangs slightly below the shoulders with no more than 4 inches hanging below the waist line or where the belly button is
• Use the waist and chest straps

Here are some features to look for in a backpack:
• Lightweight
• Wide padded straps to distribute the load over the shoulders and to make things more comfortable
• Padded back for comfort and to prevent slouching
• Separate compartments will not only keep things neat and organized but will keep the load where you placed it
• Waist strap to help transfer the load to the hips
• Strap between the two shoulders straps is a good feature as it helps prevent slouching
• Backpack should not be larger than your child’s back

Enjoy what’s left of the summer break and lets have a healthy school year ahead!!