Kids think it's "cool" to strap on their backpacks and head out to school. But if they don't know exactly how to choose, laod, lift and wear them - these all-important accessories can be a pain in the back. Not to mention the neck, head and shoulder.
Here are a few pointers to help your school age childre carry their load comfortably and safely.

Choose the right backpack:

Forget leather! It looks great but it's far too heavy. Go for vinyl or canvas. Pick a pack that has two wide, adjustable, padded shoulder straps, along with a hip or waist strap, padded back and plenty of pockets. Make sure the pack fits properly, is not too snug around the arms and under the armpits, and that its size is proportionate to the wearer's body.

Packing it properly:

They're not moving out! Make sure your children's packs contain only what is needed for that day, and that the weight is distributed evenly. It's a good idea to know roughly what each item weights. The total weight of the filled pack should be no more than 10 to 15 per cent of the wearer's own body weight. Pack heaviest objects close to the body, and place bumpy or odd shaped ones on the outside, away from the back.

Putting the backpack on:

It's a good idea to help young children with this, at least the first few times. Put the pack on a flat surface, at waist height. Slip on the pack, one shoulder at a time, then adjust the straps to fit comfortably. Remember when lifting a backpack, or anything, to lift using the arms and legs and to bend at the knees.

The right way to wear a backpack:

Both shoulder straps should be used, and adjusted so that the pack fits snugly to the body, without dangling to the side. Backpacks should never be worn over just one shoulder. You should be able to slide your hand between the backback and your child's back. The waist strap should aldo be worn for added stability.

Ontario Chiropractic Association

www.chiropractic.on.ca

Ontario Chiropractic Associ