As the new school year approaches, the focus shifts not only to academic pursuits but also to the health and well-being of students. Recognising the adverse impact that heavy school bags can have on young learners, the Consumer Protection Authority has unveiled a set of school bag standards aimed at safeguarding students’ physical health and comfort.
A well-designed school bag policy is must as it plays a pivotal role in shaping a student’s daily experience and long-term health. The Authority has outlined several key principles that contribute to the creation of an ideal school bag, promoting a balanced and injury-free lifestyle for students.
Weight matters for school bags. It is advisable to have light and well-fitted bags. The foremost guideline emphasises the importance of a lightweight school bag. The bag’s weight should be minimal to avoid exerting undue pressure on the feet, heart, and lungs. Moreover, a well-fitted bag, appropriate for the child’s height and weight, prevents strain on vital organs.
School bags must be compact in size to prevent strain on the neck and shoulders. The bag should adhere snugly to the child’s back, ensuring proper weight distribution. Equipped with two wide, equal-length straps, it prevents shoulder pain and discomfort. To mitigate negative effects and ensure children’s well-being, the Consumer Protection Authority offers practical advice. Students should avoid carrying bags improperly and switch shoulders frequently. Engaging in 20 minutes of daily exercise further supports a healthy lifestyle.
Parents are pivotal in the well-being of their children. Selecting a lightweight bag from the range of 300 grams to approximately, 2 kilogrammes, accounting for wheeled bags, sets the foundation. Additionally, parents can manage the weight by regulating items within the bag, such as pencil cases, food containers, water bottles, and geometry sets.
Books are another factor within a student’s control. Opting for lightweight and appropriate books is crucial. Eliminating unnecessary heavy covers and excessive pages enhances the overall load.
Orthopaedists and spine doctors stress the importance of choosing bags that suit the child’s body in length and weight. Proper alignment minimises the risk of exhaustion, muscle stress, and potential physical discomfort.
Medical professionals advise that school bags should not exceed 10-15 per cent of the child’s weight. It should also match the child’s torso length, avoiding the bag extending more than 10 cm below the waist. Wide, padded straps protect against injury from sharp objects. A study conducted in Italy underscores the correlation between bag weight and performance. Carrying bags that exceed 15 per cent of body weight can lead to problems in daily tasks like climbing stairs, while bags within the recommended limit maintain balance and functionality.
Efficient organisation within the school bag is essential. Heavy items should be placed closer to the child’s back, while lighter items should be positioned towards the front. This approach helps in maintaining a balanced posture and minimising strain.
By adhering to these standards and insights, students, parents, and educators can work together to ensure that the school bag becomes a facilitator of learning rather than a source of discomfort.
The Consumer Protection Authority’s initiative not only protects students from physical strain but also fosters a healthier and more comfortable educational journey.
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