Backpacks
backpacks; back; pack; carry; school;
Contents
When your child starts school, she will need to carry all kinds of things to and from home, eg. lunch, school notices, readers, homework, toys, etc.
A backpack is ideal as the child can carry it on her back, spreading the weight evenly across her shoulders and around her waist, leaving both hands free. Backpacks have different pockets so that things can be organized and easily found.
It is important to have a backpack which is the right size for your child. There are often metal strips in the pack which can be adjusted so that the pack fits your child well. Often you can buy a recommended backpack in school colours from the school uniform shop. Check with your child's school.
Some hints about backpacks
- A child should not be carrying more than 10-15% of his bodyweight, as this may cause damage to the back.
- Padded straps are more comfortable.
- The straps need to be adjusted so that the backpack fits up against the shoulders and back when the child is standing up straight.
- Work out the best place in the backpack for everything to fit.
- Check with the child's teacher if there is a locker or tray to put things in.
- Encourage your child to always wear both straps properly. Hanging a backpack from one strap unbalances the child, puts strain on the back and shoulders, and can be dangerous for passers by.
- Make sure that the child's name is clearly marked inside and outside the pack.
- Regularly check how your child is wearing the backpack. If he is leaning forward to carry it, then the straps may need adjusting or there is too much weight in there.
Check out what's in there! Kids put all sorts of things into backpacks and don't often take things out! Half-eaten food scraps, papers, things they have made, and toys can add to the weight.
- It's a good idea to wipe out the inside and outside of the backpack regularly with a damp cloth and disinfectant.
- Have a place to keep the backpack safely at home so that the straps do not cause anyone to trip.
There is a topic called Backpacks - or how to carry your life around with you on the Kid's Health section of this site that you could use when you talk with your child about backpacks.
The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Parent Helpline on 1300 364 100 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).
This topic may use 'he' and 'she' in turn - please change to suit your
child's sex.