Backpack tips to keep kids from getting bent out of shape

Back to school shopping often means buying a new backpack, but the last thing parents want is a backpack that will hurt their kids back.

Got all that?

Don’t worry, here are some tips to help find the perfect fit.

Chiropractor and mom Dr. Angela Pucci said there are three things parents need to think about.

“We want to pick the right backpack, we want to pack it properly and then we want to wear it properly,” she said.

That means get one with lots of compartments, and maybe even a waist strap, pack heavier items closer to the body so kids don’t feel like they’re being pulled back and always make sure they use both straps.

Parents also need to think about total weight.

“How much does the backpack itself weigh?” Pucci said. “How much do the books weigh? How much does the food and drink weigh? How much does the food container itself weigh?”

Kids from kindergarten to Grade 8 should only carry bags that are a maximum of 10 per cent of their body weight. That goes up to 15 per cent for students in Grades 9 to 12.

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