Your child’s school bag is important

School bags should not hurt children’s lower backs.

Starting school is an exciting experience for the little ones, who cannot wait to start reading and writing. The excitement is extended to buying the school uniform, shoes and the type of school bag or backpack that they will be using.

Your child’s backpack or school bag should meet the following criteria:

– It should weigh no more than 15 per cent of the child’s weight when fully laden.

– Choose lightweight nylon or canvas over leather.

– Padded straps reduce pressure.

– The bag should sit on the lower back, not on the buttocks.

– Heavy stuff should be packed at the bottom and the back.