Hi everyone

Time has passed quickly again! It was back to school for my gang this morning. Everything was ready to go! All the bags were full with books and supplies.All the names were written on everything. The kids were really excited but also a bit nervous!  There were really excited to see their new class, teacher and to see there friends again. I could not believe that my daughter was starting her 6th grade last year of elementary and my boys are starting 3rd grade. Wow they all look so grown up!

I wanted to include a few recommendations that I wrote last year to remind you how important it is to verify the kids back pack to avoid pain and discomfort.

It is appropriate to talk about school bags and back packs.  Many children will experience back pain, neck pain and upper back pain from their back packs. Either the actual back pack is not appropriate or the way it is filled with the books.

So here are a few recommendations:

1- Choose a back pack that is made of a light material

2- Make sure is has straps that are about 5 cm wide with a belt for the waist

3- The back pack should not be higher then the shoulder of your child

4- When you fill it with books, put the heavier books closer to the back and the smaller books more in the front.

5- Weigh your child and his back pack should not be more then 10% of his body weight

6-To put the back pack show them to bend their knees and you can elevate the bag to the table height so it is easier to pick up.

7- Never wear the back pack on only one shoulder, put it on both shoulders and make sure you can slide only one hand between the back and the bag.

If your child complains of back pain, numbness or neck pain do not wait and consult a chiropractor. I sometimes get the kids to bring me their back pack to see how they wear it and adjust it with them.

Have a great back to school

Valerie