Backpack Safety

Summer is slipping away.  Many families are preparing for school which means buying school supplies.  Does your child/children use a backpack to carry books and supplies? 

If you go to a store searching for backpacks, you will find many choices, in lots of colors and sizes.  What is the best choice for your child?  The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guides us in our backpack purchases at  http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Backpack-Safety.aspx

Here are their recommendations:

·       Get a backpack with two wide, well-padded shoulder straps.  Narrow straps can cause pain and one strap cannot distribute the weight evenly.

·       Look for a lightweight backpack to minimize the weight.  Books and supplies can get heavy so begin with a lightweight backpack. 

·       A padded back on the backpack will be more comfortable and protect your child’s back from any sharp objects in the pack. 

·       A rolling backpack may be helpful if your child must tote a heavy load.  However, this rolling backpack will need to be carried up steps and may not roll well in snow.

 There are behaviors which the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends to prevent injuries when using a back pack:

·       Tighten straps to fit the child.  The backpack should rest close to the body and sit two inches above the waist. 

·       Go light.  Keep the back pack as light as possible.  The contents should never weigh more than 10 to 20 % of the child’s body weight. 

·       Organize the contents.  Put the heavier items closest to center of back.

·       Teach your child that when he is wearing a backpack, it’s best to bend down (stoop) at the knees, not bend over at the waist.  The AAP suggests some back strengthening exercises for backpack wearers at http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/sports-injuries/Pages/Lower-Back-Pain-in-Athletes.aspx

·       Wear the backpack using both straps.  Slinging the backpack over one arm could strain muscles and cause pressure on the shoulder and spine.  

·       Tell your child to let you know if pain or discomfort begins.  Consult your pediatrician or family doctor about pain from backpacks. 

Last year I decided I wanted a backpack to use as my carry-on for travel.  We went shopping at a local store.  I was quickly overwhelmed by the many choices, colors, sizes and brands.  Wow.  I looked at my husband and said, ‘help me find one.’  I did not have these recommendations but the backpack we bought fits these recommendations.  I have used my new backpack several trips now and it has worked well.  My backpack is lightweight, comfortable and I can fit a change of clothes (in case my luggage goes astray), and essentials into my backpack.