How exciting: the child is starting school! After choosing the school and the child's admission, parents usually become aware of the first purchases. Often, a desk is set up in the child's room right away, and several utensils must be bought for school: from a pencil case and gym clothes to the school bag, everything must be ready by the beginning of September. Especially with the school bag, parents start to wonder: What should be paid attention to here? It shouldn't be too heavy or bulky so that the child doesn't hurt their back, yet there should be plenty of storage space. Here we have the most important points you should consider when buying a school bag:
Finding the right school bag
As little weight as possible
When buying a school bag, be sure to pay attention to the weight: the empty school bag should not weigh more than 1.2 kg. When fully packed, the school bag should only weigh one-tenth of the body weight. For example, if the school child weighs 20 kilos, the fully packed bag should not weigh more than 2 kg. Especially at the beginning, keep sorting out notebooks and books with the child so that they don't always drag everything to school, even though they don't need it. In schools, there are usually compartments or school lockers where they can store books that are not needed for homework.
The size
The size of the school bag must be adapted to the child, so you should go shopping for the bag together with the child or let them try it on. The school bag must not be wider than the child's shoulders, and it should not be higher than the shoulders either. The bag should fit comfortably on the back and the straps should be pleasant. Feel free to let the child wear the school bag with just a T-shirt or a thick jacket – this way you can immediately see if the straps might chafe or pinch. Furthermore, the carrying straps should not sit too close to the neck or slip off the shoulders too easily.
The carrying straps
To be able to carry the school bag comfortably on the back, there are carrying straps on the bags. These should be padded, at least 4 cm wide, and adjustable. The straps should be checked regularly to see if the length is still suitable for the school child. If the straps are adjusted incorrectly, it can lead to poor posture, as the body tries to compensate for the weight load. Both straps that are too long and too short are a disadvantage: with straps that are too short, the child leans forward and develops a rounded back. This puts too much strain on the shoulders and the upper back area. With straps that are too long, the pelvis tilts forward and the child develops a swayback. The school bag fits perfectly when the straps rest on the shoulder blades, end at shoulder height, and finish on the back area about two hand-widths above the bottom.
Extra tip:Explain to the child why it is important never to carry the bag on one shoulder, even if it is so cool and 'everyone else' is doing it.
Orthopedic back section
When choosing a school bag, make sure it has a supported back area. Such an orthopedically shaped back section helps the spine, as it cushions the movements of the books and writing utensils.
Many compartments
Several compartments in the school bag are very practical. This allows you to neatly organize books and notebooks, as well as a lunch box and water bottle.
Packing instructions:
- Heavy books: go into the rearmost compartment, close to the back
- Light notebooks: go into the front area
- Outer and side pockets: these are ideal for lunch boxes or water bottles
Stable and waterproof
Since the school bag has to endure a lot, it should be very stable. It is opened and closed repeatedly, and things are constantly being put in and taken out. It is also very important that it is waterproof and colorfast, as the child can be out in any weather. Any existing zippers should be well-made and close securely.
Furthermore, the bag should have good stability on the bottom so that it does not simply tip over when set down, whether empty or full. Also, make sure that the lid can be folded back completely so that all compartments can always be easily reached. The bag should also close well so that no rainwater or snow can get into the bag.
Extra tip:If the children travel by bus or train, it is practical if there is a transparent compartment on the outside where the ticket can be inserted so the child does not have to take it out constantly, but only needs to turn around.
The appearance
The design is usually the most important thing for children, which unfortunately does not always coincide with the parents' ideas. It is very important to the children that the color or their favorite series character is on the bag. It is important to the parents that they like the design for 4 years, because who wants to buy a new school bag every year? Tact is required here, because of course the child should choose their bag, as they have to live with it after all. It is best if you discuss the topic of choosing a school bag with the child in advance: The child can choose the bag, but you as parents have the final say if the comfort or functions are not suitable. The model should not be too short-lived, because a Winnie the Pooh might be fun in the 1st year, but embarrassing in the 4th grade.
Extra tip:Make sure that several reflectors are attached to the front and side parts. These help ensure that children are clearly visible in traffic. If there are none or too few, buy more and sew or stick them on.
School bag instead of school trolley
According to experts, the school trolley, which was advertised for some time, is unfortunately not as good for children. Because when children pull the trolley behind them, only one side is burdened, usually also crookedly, which promotes poor posture. Also, the constant lifting over steps or curbs strains the spine more than it helps. Experts advise using a school bag, where carrying the weight evenly on the back is gentler for the children.
Backpack for older children
After primary school, teenagers prefer a backpack for transporting their school supplies. Although these are often lighter than the school bag, they unfortunately often promote back pain because they are not as stable and the straps are usually too long.
Choosing the right backpack for school:
- padded, reinforced back section
- enough compartments
- wide, adjustable straps
- waterproof
- colorfast
- well closable
- possibly reflectors
The price
The price of the school bag is of course also very important, because you should not save too much here and choose the cheapest one, but rather a high-quality model. Such school bags are usually available from € 100 upwards and save you subsequent trouble or perhaps even having to buy another school bag.
Where do I buy school bags?
With all this information, you are well prepared for shopping. Now the only question is, where can I find good school bags? There are often fairs in larger towns where school bags are exhibited and you can try them out. Many stationery stores offer school bags.
On the internet, you should take a look at schulranzen.net. Here you will find a huge selection of modern school bags and backpacks, often from well-known brands. Big plus:Long return period of 111 days and from € 48,– shipping within Germany is free.
Always keep moving
Despite a perfect fit, you should ensure that your child gets enough exercise outside of school: swimming, running, cycling, or playing ball. This trains and strengthens the muscles and prevents postural defects.
Photos by schulranzen.net
Read also:Â Ideas for a healthy snack for school or kindergarten
