Tips to lighten your child’s load

Surprisingly, while earning its reputation as fashionable, the school backpack does not necessarily meet the mark on functionality.

A national SA survey report by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) said the weight distribution in a school bag is integral to maintaining a healthy posture and, if neglected in its function and design, contributes to postural deviations.

Physical ailments like induced neuro-musculoskeletal disorders, moderate cardiopulmonary function and shoulder, back and hand pain are now reported as a result of poor functional design and excessive bag carriage.

“Far superior to fashion is support and function. This plays the biggest role in the purchase decision of the annual school backpack,” said Michal Oster, the founding member of the family-owned Totem Bags.

“To prevent unnecessary strain and pain, parents should become familiar with the anatomy of a school bag and encourage their children to pack correctly for the day and only what’s necessary.”

Studies show that school children whose bags exceeded 15% of their body mass were around nine times more likely to report pain than those with bags weighing 15% below their body mass.

According to Oster, parents should look for these features when buying a school bag:
• Adjustable, padded straps
Look for wide, adjustable straps that have padding to cushion the shoulders. This feature is vital to avoid unnecessary strain, especially when carrying heavy loads. Some bags come with shoulder strap growth buckles that adjust as your child grows, keeping the bag comfortable (and your wallet happy) year after year.

• Padded back panel
A high-density foam back panel distributes weight evenly across your child’s back, preventing discomfort and potential long-term spinal damage. It also helps the bag sit comfortably against the body, avoiding pressure points.

• Durable zips and strong stitching
You need a bag that can withstand daily wear and tear. Look for one with high-quality, reinforced zips and strong, double-stitched seams.

• Water-resistant material
Bags made from durable, water-resistant fabric keep your child’s items safe from rain, scrapes and spills.

• Lightweight frame
Backpacks with internal aluminium frames help maintain the spine’s natural curve and distribute weight evenly, giving more stability, spinal support and less sway.

• Airflow and ventilation
Bags with an anatomic air system promote airflow, helping to reduce sticky, sweaty (and potentially stinky) backs.

• Self-standing design
A firm base with a self-standing mechanism will keep the bag upright, making it easy for your child to access their belongings without always needing to pick up the bag off the floor.

• Orthopaedic, really?
A big watchword in the school bag aisle is “orthopaedic”, a medical term that should be used only in fully certified designs. Using it to describe school bags without a medical endorsement is misleading.
Expert tips for strategically packing a school bag:

• Organise school supplies smartly
Start by sorting school supplies into categories and grouping similar items. Keeping everything neat and easily accessible means items will not dig into your child’s back.

• Don’t throw the weight around
An important thing to remember when packing a school bag is weight distribution. The heavier items should be closest to the back, aligning with the body’s centre of gravity and reducing pressure on the shoulders and spine to support your child’s back.

• Most school bags have several compartments – use them
To make life easier for your child, use compartments to keep things organised. Putting books and devices close to the spine creates better weight distribution, while smaller, frequently used items like snacks or stationery can go in the outer pockets.

• Be wise, accessorise
Using accessories such as pencil cases, lunch bags, and water bottles improves how the bag carries, keeps items accessible and prevents overpacking.

“Investing in a quality school bag is an investment in your child’s health. With the right bag and proper packing habits, school can remain a place of learning and growth, free from unnecessary back pain and posture issues,” said Oster.