Selecting the right backpack for school going kids is very important to avoid strains and sprains of their back and shoulders. Safety and ergonomics must be the criteria when selecting a backpack. According to medical professionals, the proper weight of a backpack should not exceed 10 to 15 per cent of the kid’s body weight, while it has been found that children usually carry an average of 17 per cent of their body weight. As a result, in 2003 alone there were about 25,000 cases of backpack related injuries in the US as reported by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. Hence, it is imperative that parents should spend some time together with their kids to evaluate backpack guidelines to insure maximum comfort, safety and correct use.
Proper care should be given to selecting the right backpack. It should have the following qualities:
1. A well-padded back. This will keep things from digging into the kid’s back and causing injuries.
2. Well-padded contoured shoulder straps. This will ensure comfort and prevent nerve compression.
3. A large number of pockets and compartments. This will prevent objects from moving around.
4. A waist strap. This will distribute weight onto hips and avoid extra strain on the shoulders and spine.
5. Made of lightweight material preferably canvas, which is lighter than leather.
6. Right size. The backpack should not go beyond four inches below the waist and should not extend over the shoulder level.
While packing a backpack the following points should be taken care of.
1. The total weight of the packed items should not exceed more than 10 per cent of the kid’s body weight. It can go up to 15 percent for older kids.
2. The heaviest objects should be put in such a way that it comes closest to the child’s back to keep the kid’s balance and avoid any extra strain.
3. The inside organizer compartments is ideal for keeping objects in statistic condition when the kid is moving.
4. Pack only the necessary items and remove each night all unnecessary items.
5. When properly packed the backpack should contour comfortably around the kid’s back instead of projecting or hanging out.
The following points should be noted while lifting and carrying the backpack.
1. Adjust both shoulder straps in such a way that the lower part reaches just above the waist, not over the buttocks.
2. While lifting the bag make the kid bend at the knees, not at the waist. Also, squatting or kneeling while lifting are also safe methods.
3. Both hands should be used to lift the backpack. Hold it close to the body while lifting.
4. Slip one arm through one shoulder strap followed by the other hand on the next strap.
If the kid can comfortably stand straight with the backpack over his/her back it is a sign that the backpack is properly packed, fitted and not too heavy.
Posted on May 29th, 2008 by admin
Filed under: Diet, Toddler, school
Leave a Reply