Back to School!
We all want the best for our kids and their health. It is important for us to properly equip them to support their learning, energy levels, growth, and the development of healthy habits all year round!
As kids head off to school, it is worth keeping an eye on the following to encourage healthy spines:
Backpacks
Before kids even step through the school gates they may be putting enormous pressure on their spine through a heavy backpack. This makes it essential they are being packed correctly.
Only pack essentials to lighten the load, and use school lockers
where available.
Pack the heaviest items closest to the spine,
making sure all zippers are done up all the way.
Secure the sternum and waist straps properly –
they are there for a reason!
Teach your child to always wear both straps!
(‘One-strapping it’ is not even cool anymore)
Reduce the time spent wearing a backpack to no more than
30 minutes at a time.
Posture
Kids spend a lot of time sitting at their desks, so maintaining good posture is vital for spinal health.
Teach them to sit with their shoulders relaxed back and down, with their chair tucked in and both feet firmly on the floor. If you see them hunching down over their desk, gently encourage them to sit up straight. However, please note if they keep putting their head down close to the desk it may be worth having their eyes tested.
Please remember to model good postural habits yourself, especially if you are working from home. Spinal health is important at every age!