The annual rush of parents buying back to school supplies will soon be underway. We know back to school is hectic. Preparing now may smooth your family’s transition back to school.
Choosing the right supplies for your student supports a fair learning environment for the entire class. For all students, a water bottle and supportive back pack are recommended. Younger students and others who may need it should consider including a change of clothes and extra emergency supplies. If your school allows, an older student might consider storing medications in her or his backpack.
Find your family school supply lists here:
All Rockyview Schools
http://www.rockyview.ab.ca/registration/schoolsupplies
Our Lady of Wisdom
http://schools.cssd.ab.ca/ourladyofwisdom/students/school-supply-lists/
Prince of Peace
http://www.popcov.com/school-supply-list/
Keep Ahead of Back to School Stress: Choosing a Backpack
By Charlotte Labrosse
It’s that time of year again! For many families, back to school shopping includes a new bag for each student. There are many things to consider in choosing the right bag. Size, style, number of compartments, material, and branding are often most important to kids as they yearn to express a developing style. With so many choices, we don’t often think about how a bag impacts our health.
Studies reveal a recent increase in childhood repetitive strain injuries partly related to poor choice in bag or heavy or unbalanced bags. Backpacks are recommended as healthiest because the strongest muscles in the body (back and abdominals) support the weight of the bag. Packing the bag evenly decreases strain on one specific side. Alberta Health Services recommends “all children should know the backpack basics: pick, pack, lift, carry.”
Pick the right bag:
-consider the shoulder straps and position of the bag when worn, broad straps distribute weight better and a waist strap ensures the back of the bag sits firmly against the spine
-the top of the bag should be at the student’s shoulder height and the bottom should sit in the hollow of the back
Pack only what you need:
-the backpack should carry only what the student needs for the day
-the backpack is loaded with less than 10 percent of the child’s weight (about 3 large books for an 80 pound child)
-the weight of the contents is evenly distributed within the bag and across the back
Lift your pack properly:
-bend your knees instead of leaning over, use your leg muscles to lift
-pick up the bag with both hands
-put on one shoulder strap at a time
Carry the pack correctly:
-use both shoulder straps, secure them snugly
-use the waist and chest straps when present
For more information about backpack health, please go to albertahealthservices.ca or contact your Public Health Nurse.
Sources:
http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/577.asp
http://kidshealth.org/parent/positive/learning/backpack.html
