Hot on HuffPost Parents:
Claire McCarthy, M.D.: Is Your Family Ready for a Disaster?
HooplaHa: WATCH: Shari Alyse: Showing What Kids Can Teach Us
Oh, my child's aching back!
Filed under: Health & Safety: Babies, Development/Milestones: Babies
As a follow up to last week's post about the science of choosing just the right pack for your child, here are some suggestions on how to help your child manage carrying a load of knowledge every day.It's that time of year when many of you are thinking about buying a backpack for the new year. The North American Spine Society (NASS) offered the following tips on how to prevent backpack-related problems and injuries with your child:
- Pack light. The loaded pack should not weigh more than 10 percent to 15 percent of the child's body weight. As a general rule, backpacks should weigh about five to 10 pounds for elementary students and no more than 15 pounds for older students.
- Organize the pack so that heavy items are close to the wearer's back. Use the pack's smaller compartments to store loose items. Distribute the weight evenly.
- Always use both straps and adjust them snugly on the shoulders. Readjust the straps every time the pack is loaded in order to ensure that the weight is properly supported.
- Educate children about backpack safety and the risk of neck and spine injuries due to improper backpack use. Encourage children to practice proper posture while they're wearing a backpack.











ReaderComments (Page 1 of 1)
8-14-2006 @ 7:14PM
Sarah said...That's all great advice, but the fact is that teachers ask kids to bring certain books to class - particularly when they get older - so they have to schlep them there and home somehow regardless of how much they weigh and regardless of whether they have lockers in order to do homework and participate in class. These are real concerns - I developed scoliosis in high school as a result of a heavy backpack. I suggest bags with wheels. Much healthier.
Reply
8-14-2006 @ 9:06PM
Sarah said...I'm a stay at home mommie with two little girls that I love to dress in high quality, trendy, up to the minute outfits! I think mom's know that children's clothing need to hold up over a million obstacles! Hundreds of washings, tea parties and playtimes! I really love brands like, Kate Mack, Ave. Blu, Baby Nay and Patricia Ann Designs. I found a wonderful store with these designers and more at SandBoxCouture.com
Reply