The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan has issued recommendations for parents of schoolchildren on how to choose the right backpack for their child, reports infohub.kz.
The ministry advises checking how heavy the school backpack becomes after textbooks, notebooks, and other supplies are packed. It is noted that a fully packed backpack should not weigh more than 10% of the child's body weight.
"A beautiful design and capacity are far from the only criteria. It is important that the backpack is lightweight, fits the child's size, sits comfortably on the back, and does not put excessive strain on the shoulders," the ministry emphasized.
According to the requirements, the recommended weight of school supplies depends on the student's age: for grades 1-3, up to 2 kilograms; for grades 4-5, up to 2.5 kilograms; for grades 6-7, up to 3.5 kilograms; for grades 8-11, up to 4.5 kilograms.
"These norms apply specifically to the daily school kit and do not include the weight of the backpack itself. Experts also recommend that the total weight of the backpack along with textbooks and supplies should not exceed 10% of the child's body weight. For example, if a student weighs 30 kilograms, it is advisable that the fully packed backpack weighs no more than 3 kilograms," experts advise.
Experts recommend choosing a backpack together with the child. Before purchasing, it is advisable to try it on and make sure it matches the student's height and fits comfortably on the back. It is also important to consider the backpack's own weight. The lighter it is, the less additional burden on the child. Experts recommend that the weight of an empty backpack should not exceed 1 kilogram.
"The backpack should not be too large for the child or hang significantly below the waist. It's better to leave extra items at home. Even the most comfortable backpack can become heavy if the child carries unnecessary things in it every day. Parents are advised to periodically check its contents. Toys, extra notebooks, books, and other items that won't be needed in class should be left at home. It is also important to teach the child to wear the backpack on both shoulders to distribute the load evenly. If the school provides such an option, some textbooks and supplies can be left in the classroom," the ministry concluded.