Health · Full coverage
Experts Warn Heavy Backpacks Can Harm Children’s Health Before School Starts
How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
100% right-leaning
Right 2
By כיכר השבת, טובה אור
First reported by Now 14 · Aug 11, 2026
What happened
Parents often overlook the weight of their children’s backpacks, which can cause pain and health issues. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises backpacks not exceed 15% of the child’s body weight. Parents should weigh backpacks, remove unnecessary items, and ensure proper fit and use to prevent discomfort.
- 01AAP recommends backpacks weigh no more than 15% of a child's body weight to avoid pain.
- 02Parents should weigh backpacks fully packed before school to check weight.
- 03Heavy items should be placed close to the back and backpacks worn on both shoulders.
- 04Backpacks should fit the child's size with padded backs and adjustable straps.
- 05Regularly remove unnecessary items to reduce backpack weight.
- 06Observe child's posture carrying the backpack to identify if it's too heavy.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
Full coverage · 2 outlets
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