Backpacks

Backpacks make it easy to carry all of your school essentials.

But backpacks also can be a real pain. Here's why: They can cause injuries if kids trip over them or hit someone with one — accidentally or on purpose. They're heavy so you don't want one to fall on your head or your hand. And heavy backpacks also can strain your back.

Here are two big backpacking rules:
1. Watch that backpack! Keep it out of the way where people are walking, such as hallways, the middle aisle on the bus, and the walkway between desks in class. You'll also want to watch out for falling backpacks if you've stored it on the top shelf of your locker.
2. Check out your blind spot! Before taking your pack off or putting it on, take a look out around you and behind you.

Sometimes, backpacks can give a kid a backache or cause pain in the neck or shoulders. To avoid this, follow these rules:

• Use both shoulder straps so you distribute the weight evenly.
• Stand up straight.
• Limit the weight.
• Give your back a break.

Also, you can try a backpack with wheels!

kidshealth.org