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With the sun the warmest and brightest of the year and my kids splashing in our neighborhood pool, the coming school year feels a world away. But in just 7 short weeks, I’ll have both of my kids in school together for the very first time. The new school year always seems to sneak up on us, and there have been times when I’ve waited until the very last moment to purchase school supplies for my son. I’m certain you can guess how that fared. Last year, I decided to get a head start on the coming school season by picking up items here and there as I encountered them. Not only did this alleviate some of the stress of having to purchase all of my son’s clothing, shoes, and school supplies at once, it ensured that we had the most expansive selection of items to choose from.
Backpacks are an important purchase, particularly as students advance grade levels and homework intensifies. Style, cost, space and function are just a few factors to consider when choosing a backpack. Ideally, I would like for my kids’ backpacks to last the entire school year since the purchases we are required to make throughout the year can quickly add up. As we head into the new school year (it’s just 7 weeks away for us), here are 5 questions to ask to help you find the right backpack for your student:
1. Is it spacious enough to accommodate my student’s school supplies and important items? Younger children can choose a smaller backpack that will house their lunch, a homework folder and some small supplies. Students in the upper elementary grade levels may need to carry books and other school-related items, so space, including pockets, is an important consideration.
2. Is it durable? Regardless of the price, it would be ideal if a backpack lasted the entire school year. Check the zippers to ensure they don’t catch on the fabric. In addition to the type of fabric used, you might consider special features such as a reinforced vinyl bottom, as featured in Walmart’s 17.5” Classic Backpack With Reinforced Vinyl Bottom and Comfort Padding. This particular backpack is roomy, supportive, and ultra-stylish in its 9 prints and colors.
3. How much does it cost? Whether you’re buying for one student or several, the cost of school supplies, clothes, shoes and anything else I’ve missed quickly adds up. Admittedly, my tendency like many parents is to opt for a more expensive backpack in hopes that it will survive the school year. If you can believe it, Walmart has a Basic 16” Front Pocket Backpack ideal for young kids in Kindergarten through third grade for just $3.97! Simple and spacious, this backpack features a large main compartment for books and folders, a zippered front pocket for smaller items and padded adjustable straps for comfort.
4. Is it comfortable and supportive? According to the American Occupational Therapy Association, a backpack should only weigh 10 % of a child’s body weight, yet every year, thousands of students are seen for sprains, strains, dislocations and even fractures, related to the wearing of a backpack. Size, padded straps, and a hip or shoulder belt are all important factors to consider when purchasing a backpack. Also ensure your child “tries on” the backpack, to ensure a proper fit.
5. Is it on-trend? Even at 5 and 8, the appearance of my kids’ backpacks trumps every one of the above criteria. In the early elementary school years, kids heavily identify with the characters they are exposed to and this is reflected in the toys they play with, the clothing they wear, and the backpacks they choose. For tween girls, Walmart’s No Boundaries 18″ Printed Canvas Buckle Flap Backpack offers the best combination of style, durability, and comfort.
To view Walmart’s entire collection of backpacks for students, visit Walmart.com.
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