How to Fit a School Backpack

It is important to fit your child's school backpack properly, because according to a report by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, 75 percent of all 8- to 12-year-olds have reported experiencing back pain from carrying backpacks that are too heavy. Not only should you buy a backpack that is the correct size, but you also should adjust the straps and pack it so the weight will be evenly distributed. Avoid being pressured to buy your child a backpack with only one shoulder strap.

Things You'll Need

  • Backpack with waist straps, padded back and padded shoulder straps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a child-sized backpack for children who are 5 to 10 years old. Older children can use standard size backpacks. The backpack should fit as high as possible on the child's back and also have waist straps to allow the load to be distributed evenly. The shoulder straps should be padded so that the nerve endings in the child's shoulders will be protected. Both the waist and the shoulder straps should be adjustable. The most comfortable school backpacks have padded backs, and the best are waterproof.

    • 2

      Load the backpack so that the largest items are closest to the child's back so that the weight will be evenly balanced. Never allow a child to carry a backpack that is heavier than 10 to 15 percent of the child's body weight. Many backpacks have smaller compartments and pockets for loose items. If your school backpack does not have any pockets, put the smaller, loose items in last, away from the child's back.

    • 3

      Place the backpack as high on the child's back as possible. The entire loaded backpack should rest between the shoulders and the waist, held in place by the waist strap. Encourage your child to keep the waist strap buckled whenever she wears the backpack. This will also help her remember to use both shoulder straps. When children use only one strap slung over one shoulder, they are at a higher risk for back injuries from carrying their school backpack.

    • 4

      Adjust the shoulder straps so that they fit close without being too tight. Insert a finger between the shoulder strap and the child's shoulder. If you cannot fit your finger in easily, the shoulder strap is too tight. Make sure to train your child to bend his knees when picking up the school backpack and then to use the leg muscles to help lift it up. This advice pertains to lifting any heavy load so as not to cause injury.