Back-to-school is in FULL SWING! In addition to homework, school supplies, and snacks, your child’s backpack may already be bursting with even more extras! Anyone else have kiddos who are a bit of packrat?
Did you know that a child’s backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 10% of their body weight?
We’ve all seen those sweet babies hiking up the school’s front steps with bags as big (or bigger!) than they are, but according to the American Occupation Association of America, that’s TOO MUCH and can be hard on our little one’s bodies.
In fact, the third Wednesday of September has been established as National Backpack Awareness Day by the AOAA with help from occupational therapy practitioners, educators, and students across the country. It’s a day to raise awareness on the dangers of kid’s carrying too much weight in their bags. This year’s date is September 23rd.
So, what are some ways you can literally lighten the load of your kids this school year?
Remember, don’t let the weight of back-to-school get you down with a too-heavy backpack!
Of course, this lesson isn’t just for our kids – I know lots of parents, teachers, and grandparents who could stand to alleviate some weight from their purses and bags as well. 😉
Here’s to a healthy and happy school year for the whole family! 🍎
