As families prepare for the new school year, experts are warning about the dangers of heavy backpacks on children’s bodies. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, signs a backpack may be too heavy include a child leaning forward to support its weight or having difficulty walking.
How Heavy is Too Heavy?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that backpacks should be as light as possible, but there isn’t enough evidence to establish a one-size-fits-all approach. Caregivers should consider their child’s individual needs and take steps to lighten the load.
Teachers say parents should focus on making sure children have basic supplies rather than getting caught up in trendy, decorative, or expensive items. Some schools are bringing back traditional textbooks, which can add to the weight of backpacks.
How to Carry the Load Safely
Experts recommend choosing a backpack that fits the child and has two broad, padded shoulder straps, a padded back, compartments to distribute weight, and a waist or chest strap to redistribute the load. Children should also be taught to pick up and carry backpacks safely, including bending at the knees rather than the waist when lifting heavier bags.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
