For most school is back in full swing, and as the first few days and weeks are past homework is starting to pile on in that nasty way it always does. I remember when I was a kid in school I used to wish my backpack had wheels on it like airline luggage, and although today some of them actually do many kids still use the traditional on-the-back backpack. And last year there were 7,300 injuries reported in U.S. emergency rooms due to backpacks that were overstuffed.

It's recommended that kids carry no more than 15% of their body weight, which isn't that much when you start piling on history and algebra books. Sometimes they even end up so packed with stuff they won't even zip shut! If your child has red marks from the backpack's straps, struggles to put the bag on or take it off, or of course is actually complaining of pain then the bag is too heavy. Consider getting them a bag that is proportionately sized to your child, has well-padded shoulder straps, and possibly even wheels if that makes sense. Some parents have even requested a second set of textbooks so it isn't necessary to tote them to and from school -- smart idea!


Via FitSugar