Backpack Safety: NSC

Backpack Safety: NSC

Click here to read the full article on this topic as published by NSC

When you move your child’s backpack after he or she drops it at the door, does it feel like it contains 40 pounds of rocks? Maybe you’ve noticed your child struggling to put it on, bending forward while carrying it, or complaining of tingling or numbness.

If you’ve been concerned about the effects that extra weight might have on your child’s still-growing body, your instincts are correct. Backpacks that are too heavy can cause a lot of problems for kids, like back, neck and shoulder pain, as well as poor posture.

While it’s common these days to see children carrying as much as a quarter of their body weight, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a backpack weigh no more than 5% to 10% of a child’s weight.

The problem has grabbed the attention of lawmakers in some states, who have pushed for legislation requiring school districts to lighten the load. While we wait for solutions like digital textbooks to become widespread, there are things you can do to help prevent injury.