Oversized Backpacks Used By School Children May Be Harmful

“There are only two places in the world where time takes precedence over the job to be done: school and prison." ----- William Glasser.

Why do some parents who usually exercise good sense and caution when it comes to outfitting their children for school seem to go off on a tangent and purchase back packs that are overly extended and visibly too large and cumbersome for their children to use? (1)

A backpack is by its most simplest definition a sack made of cloth with two straps attached to it that go over the shoulders and free a person’s hands to do other things. Some have removable structures making them flexible and handy to have around.

For school children the bag carries their books, jacket, lunches and an assortment of other necessities they may need for school on any particular day. It helps to simplify the child’s life and adds a personal touch to going to school.

The weight placed in the pack is distributed over two shoulders, and fastens it more securely to your back, allowing you a greater range of movement . (2)

It helps the child compartmentalize the contents and ensures that books, notes and lunches will not be lost on the way to the classroom.

Admittedly , shopping for a backpack is no simple chore and it does not have to be a financially expensive item to purchase. The many styles and options available with them offers parents choices and values.

Make sure to do your homework and choose from a number of styles and features before you make your purchase. Also ensure that the pack itself is strong, functional and durable.

The children who will actually be using the pack should be brought along on the shopping trip to purchase it. This offers parents the opportunity to physically allow the child to try on the pack and also readily determine if any physical restrictions or problems will result from a particular style being used.

Many parents seem to choose packs that are way too over extended for their children to safely use. The over sized bag when weighted down causes undue stress and strain on the youngster’s back and neck and could possible cause headaches and back pain for the child.

How a child wears a backpack is important in determining how his or her body will be affected by the extra weight. (3)

The extra weight could adversely affect your child’s health and comfort and cause spinal problems for the child as a result of the weight.

Choosing a backpack for your child is more than making a fashion statement. It is a choice that will affect their health for years to come.

Remember to get tips while you are in the store from the salesperson regarding preventing back injury, choosing the proper backpack, and warning signs that a backpack is too heavy. (4)

Children depend on you to make informed and intelligent decisions regarding their health and safety. Take the time, do the research and ensure that your children will have the proper equipment to return to school.

URL References

(1) http://www.praguerealestateforsale.info/getting-hello-kitty-backpack

(2) http://barb6079982.blogthisbiz.com/2010/08/11/kata-kt-d-3n1-20-slingbackpack-black-retail-145-00-sale-only-99-90/

(3). http://wisechiropractic.blogspot.com/2010/07/back-to-school-with-kids.html

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