How to choose the right backpack for a child for school
Kyiv • UNN
Doctors advise choosing a backpack with an orthopedic back and S-shaped straps for even weight distribution. The weight of a filled backpack for primary school children should not exceed 10% of their body weight.
One of the most important school accessories is the backpack, because it is what the child will carry every day. That is why not only the student's comfort, but also the health of their back depends on the right choice. More details on what parents should pay attention to when choosing a backpack will be provided by UNN.
Details
A school backpack withstands considerable daily loads, and textbooks, notebooks, sports uniforms, water, and personal items can significantly increase its weight. Therefore, if the backpack is chosen incorrectly or the child carries it in violation of recommendations, it can create additional strain on the spine, and as a result, the student risks "earning" health problems. That is why doctors recommend being careful when choosing a school backpack and monitoring how the child uses it.
What a comfortable backpack should be like
When choosing a backpack, first of all, you should pay attention to the comfort of the backpack, in particular, the back. For schoolchildren, models with an anatomical or orthopedic back are recommended, as it helps to distribute the load evenly and maintain the correct position of the back while wearing. It is also important that the back of the backpack is sufficiently rigid, but at the same time comfortable for the child. An additional advantage is special ventilation channels or soft inserts that ensure air circulation.
By the way, experts consider the presence of an orthopedic back to be especially important for first-graders.
Another important element is the shoulder straps. They should be appropriately sized, soft, and adjustable, because overly narrow straps can dig into the shoulders, while overly wide ones will slip off while walking. It is worth paying attention to models with an S-shaped strap design, as they help distribute weight more evenly and reduce pressure on the shoulders and neck. A useful addition would also be a strap that fastens at the chest or waist. It secures the backpack and helps reduce the load on the back during movement.
Furthermore, it is important that the child wears the backpack exclusively on both straps. Remember that carrying a backpack on one shoulder can lead to uneven load distribution and poor posture.
A comfortable backpack should also have several compartments or dividers, as they also help to properly distribute items and avoid unnecessary strain on the back. The heaviest items, such as textbooks or large notebooks, are recommended to be placed closer to the back and center of the backpack, while lighter items can be placed in outer pockets or front compartments. This will make carrying the backpack more comfortable.
What the weight and size of the backpack should be
One of the most common mistakes parents make is buying a large backpack "to grow into," expecting to use it for several years. However, an overly large backpack can be uncomfortable and harmful to the back. The backpack should not be wider than the child's shoulders or hang more than 10 centimeters below the waist.
As for weight, for younger schoolchildren, it is recommended to choose the lightest possible models. In general, the weight of the backpack itself should not exceed one kilogram. In addition, you should monitor the total weight of the filled backpack. For example, for younger schoolchildren, it should not exceed approximately 10% of the child's body weight, and for older students – 15%. Moreover, according to state sanitary standards, the weight of a school backpack together with textbooks and supplies for primary school students should be from 1.5 to 2.3 kilograms depending on age, and for high school students – no more than 4.5 kilograms.
Don't forget about safety
When choosing a backpack, you should pay attention to the presence of reflective elements, which make the child more visible to drivers at dusk, in the morning, or during bad weather. It is especially important that reflectors are located not only on the front of the backpack, but also on the sides and on the front of the straps. It is also worth checking the quality of the materials and asking the seller for documents confirming the safety of the product.
Even a correctly chosen backpack does not guarantee the absence of problems if it is used incorrectly. Parents should periodically check the contents of the backpack and encourage the child to carry only necessary items.
It is also important to pay attention to any complaints of pain or discomfort in the child's back, shoulders, or neck. Additionally, if the child has difficulty lifting the backpack or is forced to lean forward under its weight, then the contents of the backpack should be immediately reviewed or its adjustments corrected.
Thus, a properly selected backpack will not only help to comfortably get through the school year but will also be an important contribution to maintaining the student's healthy posture.