Children and Backpacks

Featuring Matthew Powell, MCPA, FCAMT, CGIMS

Children and Backpacks

Duration: 1 minute

A few minutes spent on the selection and proper fit of your child's backpack for school can go a long way to ensuring a healthy posture.

Look for a backpack that has a padded back to it, so that sharp objects don't poke through. The shoulder straps need to be adjustable and should be two inches wide or wider.

Adjust the backpack so that the bottom is a couple of inches above the child's waist. For a smaller child, also look for a waist strap. It's really helpful for them if they can shift the weight down to their hips, rather than dragging it on their shoulders.

If you have questions about your child's backpack, contact a local physiotherapist.

Presenter: Mr. Matthew Powell, Physiotherapist, Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Physiotherapist