Does it appear your child’s backpack is growing in size every day? Is your child lugging around a significant portion of their body weight in their backpack? Are you noticing your child struggle to maintain good posture while holding their backpack? You may need to consider if your child’s backpack is affecting their wellbeing.
According to the American Chiropractic Association a child’s backpack should weigh no more than 10 percent of the child’s weight. In addition to the weight of the backpack you should also consider whether or not:
• The backpack has an ergonomic design
• The backpack is longer than your child’s torso, or hangs more than four inches below the waist (this is a sign the backpack is not the correct size)
• The backpack has pads for shoulders and back
• The backpack has hip and chest belts
• The backpack has features to distribute the weigh, like multiple compartments
• The backpack has reflective material (this could prevent knockdown accidents)
Source: Rego Park Health Care Alliance
For more information about back to school safety click here.
Mr. Finkelstein is the Managing Partner of Finkelstein & Partners, LLP. He has become a noted consumer activist through his representation of injured individuals against corporate wrongdoers and irresponsible parties.
An accomplished litigator, Mr. Finkelstein has represented Plaintiffs in wrongful death and catastrophic personal injury cases. He has successfully handled dozens of multi-million dollar cases.