As students across the UK prepare to return to school next week following the Christmas break, a significant health warning has been issued regarding the weight of school bags. M&S has collaborated with chiropractor and member of the British Chiropractic Association (BCA), Dean Blackstock, to highlight the potential health risks associated with overloaded backpacks and to provide guidance for parents.
Understanding Safe Weight Limits for School Bags
Mr. Blackstock emphasized that many parents may not be aware of the recommended weight limits for children’s school bags. He noted, “Proper loading is vital for protecting spinal health, growth, and development.” According to experts, a backpack should weigh no more than 10% of a child’s body weight. Exceeding this limit can lead to additional strain on developing spines, muscles, and joints, resulting in issues such as poor posture and long-term musculoskeletal problems.
To provide context, when children begin primary school at the age of four, girls should carry no more than 1.6 kg, while boys should limit their bags to around 1.7 kg. By the time students reach the end of secondary school at age 16, girls’ bags should not exceed 5.6 kg, and boys can carry up to 6 kg. Parents can determine their child’s maximum bag weight by weighing the child and multiplying their weight by 0.1.
Practical Tips for Parents
To help mitigate health risks, Mr. Blackstock suggested several practical tips for packing school bags effectively. He advised that weight should be distributed evenly, with heavier items placed at the top to prevent undue 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.
While it may not always be fashionable, wearing the bag on both shoulders and properly adjusting the straps is crucial for support and pressure relief. Parents should regularly check the weight of their child’s backpack after adding essentials such as a water bottle, lunchbox, and planner. If the total weight exceeds the calculated limit, it may be necessary to remove non-essential items.
Each school has its own health and safety policy, which outlines the responsibilities of the institution regarding student wellbeing, including during school trips and extracurricular activities. Parents are encouraged to review these policies and inquire about specifics to understand how the school ensures their child’s health and safety.
According to Gov.uk, schools are responsible for maintaining health and safety standards whenever a child is in the care of school staff, including during school trips and clubs. As students head back to the classroom, awareness of proper backpack usage can play a key role in promoting their health and wellbeing during this academic year.
