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What are some Backpack Safety Interventions?

Amy M. Schlessman, PT, DPT, DHS

December 3, 2014

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Question

What are some backpack safety interventions?

Answer

You need to avoid superfluous weight in a backpack.  A backpack should have two wide padded shoulder straps and a padded back.  It should also have multi compartments as they distribute load better.  Heavier items should be placed closer to the back and the hip belt should be used on the backpack.  The backpack should sit just below the shoulders and rest on the hips and pelvis.  Children should be allowed frequent trips to their lockers and keep the backpack in the locker.  Heavy textbooks should be kept at home as possible.   Multiple bags can be used such as one for school and one for sports.  These two sites are a good resource for fitting backpacks : http://www.adventuresportsonline.com and http://www.ny2aap.org/backpack.html

This Ask the Expert question and answer was taken from course Getting Children Ready to Learn: Pediatric Ergonomics and Safety by Amy Schlessman.


amy m schlessman

Amy M. Schlessman, PT, DPT, DHS

Amy is an Assistant Professor in the Physical Therapy Program and a Center of Teaching Excellence Faculty Liaison at the University of Findlay. She is the Website Co-Chair and Zoom Committee Chair for the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy. Amy has been practicing as a school-based PT for over 18 years, focusing on health promotion and physical activity embedded into academics and interprofessional collaboration, while closely working with educators, administrators, therapists, and parents. Her research on pediatric health promotion was published in Pediatric Physical Therapy. Amy also published, “Recycle Bin Boogie: Move and Learn with Recyclables,” a physical activity book combining academic concepts with common household recyclables. She has presented regionally and nationally on a variety of topics related to health promotion, active learning, school-based therapy, and special education. 


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