Backpacks seem to be getting heavier and heavier for students everywhere. Back specialists recommend that a backpack should be less than 10% to 15% of a child’s body weight, but often it’s more. Thousands of children the world over, suffer from backpack-related injuries and complain of low-back pain. This is especially bad news in the teenage years when children are going through their last big growth spurt and their spine is developing. Here is how parents can help their kids to lighten the load:
- Make sure you buy the right backpack. Choose a backpack that is the right size for your child and has the features you’re looking for. Be sure your child is using both shoulder straps, not just one. If you choose cheaper backpacks, they may not last them through their school years.
- Ensure good posture. Teach your child the importance of good posture when they walk. The right posture is important because it determines where the contents of the backpack hit your child’s back.
- Carry only what is necessary. Some children tend to carry all the books every day, either out of laziness to sort them or simply as a matter of convenience in the school. They also clutter their bags thereby increasing the weight. Teach your child to be disciplined in terms of carrying only what is needed and help them clean the clutter frequently.
- Carry only when needed. Finally, make sure your child is only carrying it when needed. Otherwise, it’s okay to take the backpack off and set it on the ground if they’re going to be standing in place for a while. And, if despite all this, your child is still complaining about back pain, be sure to have them be seen by their paediatrician to make sure it’s not anything serious.
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