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Make sure the backpack isn't too big for your child to handle.
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Choosing the Right BackpackOver the past decade, the backpack has become the standard carryall for schoolchildren, who now go off to class lugging more stuff than ever before. With a few hints and tips, you can help your child choose a school backpack that will meet all of his or her needs and look great too.
As Vice President of Scholastic Family Publishing, Judsen Culbreth directs two leading publications for parents and early childhood professionals, Scholastic Parent & Child and Early Childhood Today. She is also the mother of two teenagers. Here she offers her expert advice for picking out the perfect back-to-school backpack for your child.
- Ergonomics. A parent's first consideration when looking for a backpack should be ergonomics. Your kids have growing bodies, so you'll want something designed for maximum comfort and safety. A backpack with wheels can be a good choice, as the child will be able to tow it along when it's filled with very heavy items.
- Size. You'll want to make sure that the bag can fit everything your child needs to carry, but don't overdo it and buy something huge. A big bag that's out of proportion to your child will not be comfortable, and it will look pretty silly too.
- Decorations. You might want to consider buying fun add-ons so your child can personalize his or her pack. Special markers or pens or little toys and stickers can help your child turn a plain backpack into a personal statement.
- Budget. Make sure your child understands that you have a limit to your buying budget. The really high-tech backpacks can get quite pricey, so set limits before you walk into the store to avoid arguments.
- Let the child choose. As long as all of the above concerns are met, you should back off and let your child do the choosing. Shopping for a backpack can not only let your child express his or her personality, it can give them something to look forward to as Summer ends and provide a nice transition into the school year.
For more information on backpacks and back-to-school issues, check out the following organizations and websites:
Scholastic
www.scholastic.com/index.asp
Top 10 Back to School Backpacks and Daypacks
walking.about.com/cs/backtoschool/tp/schoolpack.htm?PM=ss05_walking
School Bags
www.school-bags.com
ABC News: Not Cool for School?
abcnews.go.com/sections/living/DailyNews/kids_backpacks010213.html | 
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