September is Backpack Safety Month: Remedies for Parents

"Step on a crack, break your mother's back," the saying goes. Wearing a backpack to school should not apply to kids. When school-aged children are bogged down with backpacks that are too heavy, it puts a serious strain on their backs. Children should be suffering through pain simply to bring items to and from school. Take these measures to help ensure your child won't be hurting under the pressure and weight of a backpack.

Remedies for Parents

Use lightweight packaging - Wrap sandwiches with non-perishable fillings, fruit and other foods in wax paper rather than using a plastic container. The weight may not seem like much, but your child would have to carry this item to and from school.

Pick up book orders - If you have the option and the opportunity, request to pick up books ordered through school rather than have them sent home in your child's backpack.

Try on for size and weight - Backpacks should always be purchased when you have your child with you. The child should be able to try on the backpack to see if it's the right size. According to Backpack Safety America, "the maximum weight of the loaded backpack should not exceed 15 % of your body weight, so pack only what is needed."

How will you know if the backpack is too heavy without doing the math?

* The student should be able to lift and put on his own backpack without help. Remember, your child will have to do this at least two times a day, if not more.* If the backpack causes the child to lean forward, it's too heavy and overloaded according to Backpack Safety America.

Light vs. heavy duty - Purchase lightweight backpacks that are sturdy enough for the school year. You may be tempted to spend more for a heavier and seemingly more durable backpack, but even those backpacks may need to be replaced before the following school year.

Teaching kids how to lift - Just as we should all lift objects by bending our knees first to protect your backs, kids should also bend at the knees, lift the backpack and then put it on.

Safety vs. Fashion - Encourage kids who walk to school or wear their backpacks for an extended time should wear the waist strap. This may not be a viable option for elementary school children who will struggle with the straps or have to remove their backpacks to ride the bus.

Sources

Personal Experience

Backpack Safety America