Backpacks help students carry supplies to school.
An important factor at back-to-school time is picking out the right backpack. Backpacks come in all shapes, sizes, colors and designs. Most children want a backpack that reflects who they are. But is a school backpack a helpful tool to navigate the hallways or a health risk?
Pros
According to Kids Health, correctly worn backpacks cause less neck and shoulder injuries than carrying a briefcase or purse. Having a backpack helps teach children responsibility and organization. Using a backpack correctly encourages children to make a homework plan, bring home the supplies that they will need and learn what items are unnecessary to take to school. In addition, a backpack makes it easy to stay organized and transport books and papers from school to home.
Cons
Kids Health explains that a heavy backpack can lead to poor posture, causing a compressed spine as well as neck, shoulder and back pain. In addition, backpacks worn over just one shoulder may cause children to lean to offset the weight, leading to back pain and strains on shoulders and neck. Thin backpack straps may lead to tingling and numbness in arms and hands as a result of interference with nerves and circulation. Backpacks also cause a change in gait and increase the risk of becoming off-balance or falling. They can also injure other students at the school. Large backpacks are easy to trip over, and in tight spaces it is easy to accidentally hit someone else with a backpack.
Backpacks with Wheels
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) explains that rolling backpacks are a good choice for students who have a heavy load. These backpacks still have to be carried up stairs and are difficult to maneuver through snow. Some schools have banned these types of backpacks due to the hallway tripping hazard they pose.
Other Considerations
The AAP explains that the safest backpacks are those that weigh no more than 10 percent to 20 percent of a child's body weight. In addition, backpacks should have thick padded straps, a padded back and a variety of compartments. Packing wisely, by putting heavy items in the back and using all the compartments, can help disperse the backpack's weight. Kids Health suggests that schools can help by allowing extra time between classes, using paperback books, putting curriculum content online and implementing school programs about safe backpack use.
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