Experts Warn Heavy Backpacks Can Harm Children’s Health Before School Starts

As the new school year approaches, many parents meticulously prepare their children’s school supplies but often overlook the weight of their backpacks. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), carrying a backpack that is too heavy can cause back, neck, and shoulder pain in children. The AAP recommends that a backpack should not exceed 15% of a child’s body weight, with a general guideline ranging from 10% to 20%. For example, a child weighing 20 kilograms should carry no more than about 3 kilograms in their backpack.

Parents are advised to weigh their child’s backpack fully packed as it will be carried to school. If the child leans forward to balance the load or asks for help carrying it, these are signs the backpack is too heavy. Experts suggest regularly reviewing the backpack’s contents and removing unnecessary items, such as extra notebooks, multiple pencil cases, or unused supplies. Heavier items should be placed closer to the child’s back, and backpacks should be worn using both shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly.

Choosing the right backpack is also crucial. The AAP recommends selecting one that fits the child’s height and size, with padded backs and adjustable, wide shoulder straps. The backpack should sit close to the child’s back and not hang low. Additional features like chest or waist straps can help distribute the weight more comfortably.

Before the school year begins, parents should conduct a simple two-minute test: weigh the child, then weigh the fully packed backpack, and observe the child’s posture while carrying it. This can help prevent discomfort and potential health issues. Ultimately, while children carry many important items to school, unnecessary weight should be minimized to protect their developing bodies.