As the new school year begins, many parents focus on supplies, schedules, and routines. But one important detail often overlooked is backpack safety. A poorly fitted or overloaded backpack can put unnecessary stress on a child’s spine, shoulders, and posture, leading to aches, pains, or even long-term musculoskeletal issues.
At Laurelwood Chiropractic Wellness Centre, we want to ensure your child heads back to school with comfort and confidence. Here are some essential back-to-school backpack safety tips every parent should know.
1. Choose the Right Backpack
When shopping for a backpack, look for:
- Wide, padded shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly.
- Two straps instead of one—crossbody bags can strain one side of the body.
- Lightweight material to minimize unnecessary weight.
- Multiple compartments to help balance the load.
2. Pack Smart
Backpacks shouldn’t weigh more than 10-15% of your child’s body weight. For example, if your child weighs 80 pounds, their backpack should be no heavier than 8-12 pounds. Place heavier items, like textbooks, closer to the spine and lighter items toward the outside.
3. Adjust the Fit
- The bottom of the backpack should sit at your child’s waistline or just slightly above.
- Straps should be snug but not digging into the shoulders.
- Avoid letting the bag hang low—it can cause your child to lean forward and strain their back.
4. Encourage Good Habits
Teach your child to:
- Always use both straps.
- Bend their knees (not their waist) when picking up a heavy backpack.
- Regularly clean out unnecessary items to lighten the load.
5. Watch for Warning Signs
If your child complains of back, neck, or shoulder pain—or if you notice poor posture, red marks from straps, or difficulty putting on/taking off the backpack—it may be time to adjust their bag or seek professional advice.
Why Backpack Safety Matters
Children are still growing, and their developing spines are especially vulnerable. By practicing good backpack habits, you can help prevent strain, discomfort, and potential posture problems down the road.
Support Your Child’s Back-to-School Health
At Laurelwood Chiropractic Wellness Centre, we help families stay healthy all year long. If your child is experiencing back or shoulder pain, or if you’d like a backpack safety check-up, our team is here to help.
Contact us today to book an appointment and give your child a strong, healthy start to the school year!