The school backpack is an essential item for your child to have. It allows them to carry everything they need to and from school in comfort and style. You want the best for your child, and it wouldn’t hurt to have peace of mind knowing that they will have no trouble carting around the various items they need to succeed at school.
But how do you choose the best backpack for Australian school children? In this article we’ll talk you through what to look for and how to make the best decision to ensure your children are comfortable and prepared.
Know School Rules
Some Australian schools have stringent requirements for uniforms that, in some cases, also extend to school bags. A few schools require the school bag to be purchased directly through them, as it forms part of a specific uniform. Others may require bags to be a particular colour, like neutral black or dark blue.
However, most schools in Australia allow freedom of choice with school bags, but you should be familiar with the specific uniform rules of your child's school before starting your search for the perfect school bag.
Consider Your Child's Needs
The age and grade of your child will have a massive impact on their school bag needs. A high school student is likely to carry far more items and textbooks than a child in grade prep, for example.
The school bag you choose must be large enough to accommodate all the necessary items, but not so large as to be unwieldy or unrealistic. Your child must be comfortable carrying the bag, even when it is full of their necessary things.
Keeping this in mind, you also need to consider the size and strength of your child. Make sure the bag is not too heavy for them, even when fully packed.
The Importance Of Quality
Above all else, your child's school backpack must be high quality and made of durable, sturdy materials that are not readily subject to wear and tear. Ideally, your child should get many years of use out of the same school bag. Spending a little more at first could save you a lot of money down the track if you do not need to replace school bags constantly.
Straps should have padding for additional comfort, essential when the bag is full and heavy. Compartments should be well-sectioned and fit for purpose to avoid items becoming lost or damaged.
Also, the bag should be secure. It needs good security features such as kissing zips which allow for locking or zips on the back of the pack to make them less accessible to others.
Backpack Accessories
School backpacks have come a long way in recent years. Gone are the days where bags were simple, as many now include features that can make your child's life far more manageable. For example:
- Drink bottle pockets to keep drinks cool and prevent other items in the bag from becoming wet or damaged from condensation.
- Key clips for keeping keys easily accessible.
- Headphone ports to allow for listening to music while carrying the backpack.
- Sternum straps to secure the bag across the chest for greater comfort.
- Phone pockets to keep mobile phones secure yet easily accessible.
- Laptop compartments for storing personal computers and other electronic devices.
Which of these will be preferred will depend on your child's age, grade, and educational needs. It also depends on your budget. Backpacks featuring most of these optional extras are likely to be more expensive than those that do not.
Proper Backpack Use
Even with the best quality backpack, it is worth spending some time talking your child through basic safety to prevent injury. Please encourage them to lift it properly and use both shoulder straps when carrying it, particularly when packed and heavy.
Watch how they use the backpack and correct any issues. These things may sound minor but can save your child from back and shoulder injuries resulting from long-term improper backpack use.
Final Thoughts
Now that you understand the makings of a great school backpack, be sure to check out our whole stock of backpacks. Visit in person or online, and send your children back to school in style! We cover other back to school topics on our blog as well, such as how to choose the best shoes for school, and our toddler shoe sizing guide. Be sure to check them out.
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