Parents whose children happily graduated from kindergarten, with annoyance and some confusion think about shopping for school. These purchases also include the main attribute of school life - a bag for a first grader. It is sometimes difficult to make a choice out of a large variety so that the bag is comfortable for the child and good for his health.
Bag - briefcase, satchel or backpack?
The portfolio, known to all parents since Soviet times, has very few advantages over other types of bags. A briefcase, or regular school bag, usually has one handle or one strap. It can be carried by hand or on the shoulder. This is a significant disadvantage of portfolios. If you remember how many textbooks and other educational supplies a child needs to carry, the refusal to buy a portfolio arises by itself. Carrying a heavy bag in one hand forces the student to lean to one side, which negatively affects the fragile spine. Scoliosis can easily develop in just a year. This is why podiatrists do not recommend the briefcase as a school bag for elementary school children. Although it is possible to offer a portfolio for senior students.
The satchel is a bag with a rigid frame and two straps. Its straight, rigid back rests tightly on the student's back, thereby protecting the spine from scoliosis. Due to the dense frame, the contents of the bag fit comfortably inside, distributing their weight evenly. Textbooks and notebooks are always protected from rain or shock. But it is worth noting that the weight of the knapsack itself can vary from 1 to 2 kg, and this is a big load on children's shoulders. The backpack must be worn correctly: make sure that it does not fall below the child's waist and the straps are on the shoulders, otherwise the orthopedic effect is lost.
The backpack differs from the knapsack in the absence of a hard case. This is a simple, soft bag that has two shoulder straps, many pockets and compartments for small items. It is lightweight and quite comfortable. Among the large assortment, you can find backpacks with a solid back. It relieves stress on the student's spine and reduces the risk of developing scoliosis. Backpacks are most often purchased by adult children.
Briefly about how to choose a school accessory for a first grader
Whatever you choose for your child, make sure that it is as comfortable and easy as possible. Purchase a school bag from a specialized store that has a quality certificate for the products. Don't skimp on the health of your children. Be sure to choose a schoolbag with your child. Try it on, adjust the straps, add inside the book. So you will immediately notice all the pros and cons of the chosen model. Choose a bag that is made of waterproof fabric. Such a thing will be easy to clean from dirt or wash.
The weight of an empty knapsack should not exceed 800 grams. The weight norm of a full bag for a first grader is 1.5 kg. The back of a backpack for a first grader must be rigid, with a special orthopedic insert. The firm back and rigid bottom will help distribute the weight of the textbooks throughout the bag, making it easier to carry. Backrest lining can be mesh for better air flow.
The straps of a knapsack or backpack should be wide and soft. They should be easily adjustable in length so that the child can comfortably carry the bag at any age and on different clothes. The handles on the briefcase should not be rough or sharp. Choose a bag with smooth, non-slip handles.
Reflective elements will be useful details on the schoolbag. They will protect the child in the dark on the roads. And the most important thing is that the child himself likes the bag. Then he will happily go to first grade.
