Backpacks are handy for carrying books-and lots of other things. But if they're not used right, they can strain muscles and even cause back pain.
Backpack safety is important for everyone. It's especially important for children, who can be hurt by regularly carrying too much weight or by not wearing their backpacks safely.
Choose the right backpack
Look for these features:
Light weight. Leather backpacks may look nice, but other materials, like canvas or nylon, weigh less.
Wide, padded shoulder straps. A loaded pack will dig into shoulders if the straps are too skinny.
Waist belt. This is an important feature. It takes some weight off of the back and transfers it to the hips.
Handy compartments, the more the better. They help distribute the weight evenly. They also make packs easier to organize.
Padded back. This keeps sharp edges from digging into the back.
Wheels. These are nice if you or your child needs to carry a lot. But check with your child's school to make sure they're allowed. Remember that these packs will still have to be carried up stairs. And they can get messy when pulled through mud or snow.
Pack it safely
Experts say a child shouldn't carry more than 15% to 20% of his or her weight. Don't guess-use your bathroom scale to weigh the loaded pack.
Pack the heaviest items closest to the back. Packs with compartments make this easier to do.
Talk to your child about using his or her locker to keep from carrying everything around all day.
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