Parents are being reminded to weigh their children's school bags as experts warn many are exceeding recommended limits, risking spinal health and long-term musculoskeletal issues. According to the British Chiropractic Association (BCA), a backpack should weigh no more than 10 percent of a child's body weight.
Chiropractor Dean Blackstock, a BCA member, highlighted that many children carry far more than this safe limit. "Proper loading is vital for protecting spinal health, growth and development," he said. Overloading can lead to poor posture, discomfort, and even chronic injuries as children compensate by leaning forward or sideways.
The advice comes as the new school year begins, offering an opportunity to reassess bag weights. For a four-year-old starting primary school, the safe maximum is around 1.6kg for girls and 1.7kg for boys. By age 16, girls should carry no more than 5.6kg, and boys up to 6kg. However, because children grow at different rates, parents are urged to calculate the exact limit based on their child's current weight.
To ensure bags stay within the safe limit, parents should pack essential items like water bottles, lunchboxes, and planners, then check the weight on scales. If it exceeds the limit, consider removing non-essential items. Packing heavier items at the top of the bag and distributing weight evenly can also help.
Wearing the bag correctly is equally important. Mr Blackstock advised using both shoulder straps and adjusting them to ensure proper support. While it may not be fashionable, this simple step eases pressure on the body and reduces the risk of injury.
