Schools in, half-term is almost here and your child might definitely be in need of a break. All that studying can definitely be mentally exhausting. But what about physical discomfort? If you’ve noticed your child experiencing some backaches and joint pains then it might be time to take another virtual trip to the Mumzworld App for a new school bag. As parents, we worry on how much weight kids should be carrying to school, which sparks and reignites the same debate every Back to School season.
How to Buy the Correct School Bag for Your Child?
Research has shown that a school bag without proper back support can cause children to experience back and neck pains. A problem we all don’t want to see in our precious little ones. Think of the joint and back strain from carrying around all those boxes, stationary and PE clothing. The British Chiropractic Association has some valuable information on back and neck problem preventions.
Tim Hutchful from the British Chiropractic Association has some advice:
“We recommend a backpack over other styles of bags as it allows the weight of the bag’s contents to be distributed evenly across both shoulders so the spine is not pulled out of line.“
Not only is buying the correct school bag for your child really important but ensuring they are using it correctly is just as important.
School Bag Buying Tips
1| Choose the correct size
Buying a school bag that is too big will not even out the weight properly on your child’s back. It will sag and make carrying even more straining to their joints. Plus shoulder straps should be wide and padded as this will help with comfort and support. The SkipHop Backpack is perfect for preschoolers as its extremely lightweight and has a padded back as well as shoulder straps for added comfort.
2| Look for good back support
Having good support and ensuring that your children are wearing their school bags correctly is important. Make sure they are using both straps on each shoulder, not using both on one shoulder and it’s adjusted to fit. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons states that to ease the carried load on their children, parents should pick an appropriately sized backpack with padded shoulder straps for more comfort. We recommend the Lovely Company – Backpack as not only is it perfect for your little kiddo but also it provides good support with padded and adjustable shoulder straps.
3| Go for a separate lunch bag
It’s hard not to make their school bags heavy with everything they need to carry. Why not try having a lunch bag they can carry in their hands? Not only will you be free of cramming everything into their backpack, but you will put less strain on their poor little backs. This Marcus & Marcus Insulated Lunch Bag is a great choice as its padded carry handle fits into small hands easily.
4| Shoes, shoes, shoes!
Yes, good quality shoes are equally as important as good quality bags for proper back support. Having proper shoe support will help with their back posture. Clarks, the school shoe experts have been around for decades and that’s because they make great supportive shoes.
5| Trolley bags are a great option
Younger children can always use the trolley bags as that would greatly reduce any joint strains. Eazy Kids Trolly Bag is a great bag with good quality wheels and an extendable handle making pulling the bag strain free. It is also super fun for them to push and roll them a long!
6| Planners help a lot!
Life can get busy and the truth is, mums have a lot to remember! Take some time to make sure you empty what isn’t needed inside their backpacks. Or try getting your child into a weekly routine of cleaning out their own bags. Weekly planners are always a great reminder for children to stay on track. Prickly Pear 90 Day Planner will help to plan out your day and give you room for your creative flair to let loose! There are also designated areas for a to-do list and any extra miscellaneous notes.
Take some time to choose a good quality bag, one that will not only last but will provide your child with the support needed to ensure a healthy back and spine. With many options to choose from at Mumzworld that don’t compromise in quality and design, you can rest assured that your child will be comfortable, safe and happy!
