Health Tip: Packing a Backpack

(HealthDay News) -- Kids already assume a heavy burden when they return to school in the fall, so don't make it worse with a heavy backpack.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these suggestions to help reduce your child's chances of pain and injury:

  • Make sure your child's pack has a padded back and wide shoulder straps with padding.

  • Use the compartments inside the backpack to make sure it's well-organized, with the heaviest items toward the back.

  • Avoid overloading the pack. Don't exceed more than 20 percent of your child's body weight.

  • Make sure your child always uses both shoulder straps.

  • If your child must carry a lot of heavy books, see if the school allows a rolling backpack.

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