Backpack Safety

The beginning of school is almost upon us, and if you have little ones attending school this year I’m betting that the search for the perfect backpack is on!

More important than aesthetics, you’ll want to consider the following important safety guidelines when choosing and packing a backpack for your child:

• Choose a backpack that is the correct size.  When worn, backpacks shouldn’t extend higher than shoulder level and should not be lower than four inches below the waist.
• Select a bag that has padding on the back and shoulders for comfort.  Back padding will also prevent items from digging into your child back.
• Consider the materials the backpack is made out of.  Certain materials, such as canvas, tend to be more light-weight than leather, for example.
• Waist straps will help distribute weight onto the hips and off the spine and shoulders.
• When worn, a correct-fitting backpack should contour the child’s back rather than hang off their shoulders.
• For students attending Kindergarten to Grade 8, a full backpack should weigh less than 10% of your child’s body weight (and no more than 15% for older students).
• To help your child maintain his/her center of gravity, pack heavier items closer to the child’s back.
• Backpacks should be lifted from the ground using bended knees, and should be put one one arm at a time.  Backpacks shouldn’t be slung just over one shoulder.
• Your child’s backpack should contain only necessary items – be sure to clean it out each night and re-pack every morning.*

We have previously reviewed two backpacks, Beatrix New York Little Kid and Big Kid Backpacks (top) and Skip*Hop’s Zoo Packs (above).  Both companies have really used their imaginations to create modern, funky, colourful, and fun animal-themed backpacks little kids will love, and it will be hard for your child to choose his/her favourite.  In that case, it might just come down to price – Beatrix New York backpacks start at $44.99 CDN, while Skip*Hop’s line retails for about $16.99 CDN.

If you’re interested in purchasing a Beatrix New York backpack or a Skip*Hop Zoo Pack for your child, excellent on-line retailer Raspberry Kids carries both lines and is offering readers of Spilt Milk Moms a 15% discount on any purchase (excluding sale items) from their store.  Simply use discount code spiltmilk15 at checkout – thanks Raspberry Kids!

*Information compiled from Backpack Safety America and an article on Backpack Safety from Canadian Parents.com.

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