is your child’s backpack too heavy?

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Back to school shopping is exciting – especially when your child gets to pick out a cool new backpack. But while they’re focused on colors and characters, you’ll want to keep safety in mind.  

A backpack that’s too heavy or worn incorrectly can lead to back pain, neck strain and even injuries from falling. Heavy backpacks can cause children to roll their shoulders forward, which also causes the head to move forward triggering headaches. The effects of a heavy backpack may not show up right away, and can start a couple months after school starts.  

why backpack safety matters 

• Too heavy? It can strain your child’s lower back and neck.  
• Poor posture? Heavy backpacks cause kids to hunch forward, leading to tension and headaches.  
• Off balance? A shifting center of gravity increases the risk of falls.  
• Missed fun? Chronic pain can keep kids from playing sports and social time.  

6 smart backpack tips for parents  

1. Keep it light – A full backpack should weigh no more than 15% of your child’s body weight.  Example: 100 lbs x 0.15 = 15 lbs max  
2. Pick the right style – Choose a two-strap backpack over a messenger or shoulder bag for better weight distribution.  
3. Check the fit – The bottom of the backpack should rest at the arch of the back – not below the belt line.  
4. Pack it smart – Place the heaviest items closest to the back. Lighter items go farther out.  
5. Clean it out regularly – Help your child empty and weigh their backpack at every seasonal break.  
6. Lift with care – Teach your child to bend their knees and place the backpack on a desk or chair before putting it on.  

⚠️Experts also urge parents to stray away from rolling backpacks. Rolling backpacks can also become very heavy, causing the child to bend forward or to the side, resulting in pain. Children may also lift rolling backpacks up steps which can lead to injury.  

Picking your child’s backpack can still be a fun experience! Use these tips to determine what backpacks are safe and functional, then let them choose the style and color that expresses their personality. You will be one step closer to an excellent and safe school year.  

Picking your child’s backpack can be a fun experience! Use these tips to determine what backpacks are safe and functional, then let them choose the style and color that expresses their personality. You will be one step closer to an excellent and safe school year!