As students across the UK prepare to return to school next week after the Christmas break, a critical health warning has been issued concerning the weight of school bags. In collaboration with chiropractor and member of the British Chiropractic Association, Dean Blackstock, the supermarket chain M&S (Marks & Spencer) aims to raise awareness about the potential health risks posed by improperly loaded backpacks.
Blackstock emphasized the importance of adhering to recommended weight limits for children’s school bags, highlighting that many parents are unaware of these guidelines. “Proper loading is vital for protecting spinal health, growth, and development,” he stated. Experts recommend that a backpack should not exceed 10% of a child’s body weight. With numerous bags often far exceeding this recommendation, the chiropractor noted that excessive weight can lead to poor posture, discomfort, and long-term musculoskeletal issues.
Specific recommendations suggest that when children start primary school at age four, girls should carry no more than 1.6 kg, while boys should limit their load to approximately 1.7 kg. By the time they complete secondary school at age 16, girls’ backpacks should weigh no more than 5.6 kg and boys up to 6 kg. To determine the maximum allowable weight for a child’s backpack, parents can multiply their child’s weight by 0.1.
Essential Tips for Packing School Bags
To help parents pack their children’s school bags safely, Blackstock provided some practical advice. He recommended distributing weight evenly throughout the bag and placing heavier items at the top to reduce strain on the shoulders. “A few small adjustments to how children carry their school bags can make a big difference to their long-term musculoskeletal health,” he added.
He further advised that, while it may not seem fashionable, wearing the bag on both shoulders and adjusting the straps accordingly is essential for proper weight support. Parents should regularly check the weight of their child’s backpack, especially after adding essentials such as a water bottle, lunchbox, and planner. If the total weight exceeds the recommended limit, parents should reconsider which items are necessary.
Schools also play a role in ensuring the health and safety of students. Each institution has a health and safety policy detailing its responsibilities, including during school trips and extracurricular activities. According to Gov.uk, “Schools are responsible for day-to-day health and safety whenever your child is in the care of school staff.” Parents are encouraged to inquire about their school’s specific policies to better understand the measures in place for their child’s safety.
As children head back to school, adhering to these guidelines can help prevent potential health issues and support their overall well-being. Safe school bag practices are a simple yet effective way to promote healthy development for young students.
