Backpacks For School

Children's Backpacks

Our web site is a source for you to find the type of backpack for your child you are looking for. We will do our to help you make an educated decision.

Choosing a proper children's backpack is not as simple as one would think it is. Matter of fact just based on the fact that 64% of children suffer from back pain tells quite a bit. Most of these cases can be traced to either overloaded or improper fitted backpacks. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, in 2004 there were 7,600 hospital treated injuries associated with backpacks amongst the 9-16 year old age group.

Learning to properly wear and use a backpack is important to proper and efficient load distribution. This will lead to a lesser chance of your child developing back injuries.

Here are some key things to look for in a backpack;

Choose a Two Strap Model

This is essential to proper load distribution. If your child will be carrying a fair amount of books you should always choose a model with two straps.

Size

A properly fitted backpack will rest 1 to 2 inches below the shoulders and about 2 inches above the waistline. Basically it should be just slightly smaller then your child's back.

Padded Straps

Look for wide padded straps, about 2 inches in width minimum. These help distribute the weight more evenly on the shoulders.

Lightweight

The bag should be light. Most of the stress upon the back is caused by the weight of a loaded backpack. Every step you can take to make things lighter helps.

Waist Strap

By using a waist strap, the load is distributed even more away from the shoulders and to the hips. This causes a dramatic reduction in the amount of stress on the back.

Safety

Consider backpacks that feature some sort of reflective material on the back and the sides. This will add visibility to your child as they move about in the fall and winter months. Also after your purchase you should shorten any straps that are excess in length after the backpack has been adjusted for your child. This will help to keep those long straps from getting caught in doors or stepped on.

Style

Keeping in mind the importance of function and the points above, there are more options today than ever. Choose wisely and look for a style that best suits your child. Older kids today tend to lean towards the messenger style bags as an option to the normal backpack style. Younger kids may insist on that cartoon character backpack. Whatever style you choose just make sure that it is ergonomically sound, is comfortable and can meet the school year workload.

Other Features to Consider

A few other features you can think about that are: