Backpacks come in all sizes, colors, fabrics, and shapes and help kids of all ages express their own personal sense of style. And when used properly, they're incredibly handy. As practical as backpacks are, though, they can strain muscles and joints and may cause back pain if they're too heavy or are used incorrectly. Here's how to help kids find the right backpack.
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Choose Right
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- Choosing the right size backpack is the most important step to safe backpack use.
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Pack Right
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- The maximum weight of the loaded backpack should not exceed 15% of your body weight, so pack only what is needed.
- TIP: If the backpack forces the wearer to lean forward to carry, it is overloaded.
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Lift Right
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- Face the pack-bend at the knees-use both hands and check the weight of the pack. Lifting with the legs, apply one shoulder strap and then the other.
- TIP: Don’t sling the backpack onto one shoulder.
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Wear Right
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- Use both shoulder straps – snug but not too tight.
- TIP: When the backpack has a waist strap – use it.
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