- The bag should have strong back support. It has to be firm but flexible to ensure good contact with the child's back.
- Check the position of the school bag. It should be positioned with its bottom just along the hip level and the top of the bag should be slightly above the shoulders.
- The bag should not be positioned too low on the child's back. This will prevent strain on the child's neck and shoulders.
- Teach the child to adjust the shoulder straps to get the bag in the correct position. Do this by bending forward and pulling the lower straps.
- You can prevent the shoulder straps from slipping off by using the cross-chest strap.
- The bag must always be carried on both shoulders. This is to protect the child's back and spine.
- Consider the weight distribution of the items in the bag. Heavy items should be placed closest to the back and secured with the elastic straps.
- Teach the child to avoid the extra weight by asking her to bring only the necessary items and repack it every day. This will cut down the total weight of the bag and thus will reduce the overall strain on the child's back.
Parents should take note of the maximum load of their children's school bags. The recommendation is that the weight of the full school bag should not exceed up to 15% of the child's body weight.
