What backpack to buy for a first grader. How to choose a backpack for a first grader: tips for parents. The right school bag: health is above all

The beginning of schooling is the most important stage in the life of first-graders and their mothers and fathers. Parents are knocked down trying to pick up better shape, stationery and, of course, a backpack. Why is choosing the right school bag so important?

Today's first-graders wear a set of textbooks, sport suit and second shoes. The total weight of this set of educational supplies sometimes exceeds the physical capabilities of a “beginner” student. That's why it's so important to choose best backpack: this will keep the child in the correct posture and significantly reduce the load on the child's back.

Backpacks, backpacks and briefcases - what is better and what is the difference

Before choosing the ideal option, let's first understand the terminology. Bags for carrying textbooks, sports uniforms and other accessories come in three types.

1. Backpack. Traditionally, soft light bags resembling a bag are referred to it. The neck of the backpack is tightened with a cord or fastened with a zipper. This bag is equipped with two straps that allow you to carry it on your back. In addition, the design provides 2-3 large compartments and several small pockets for small items. Manufacturers produce models for boys and girls, they differ only in colors and patterns on the outside of the backpack.
2. Knapsack. This is a modified version of the backpack, which, in addition to two straps, has rigid ribs that give strength and stability to the entire structure. Properly selected satchels retain their shape for a long time, protect the contents from damage. The main disadvantage of such bags is enough big weight. An empty backpack weighs about a kilogram, and a few textbooks and notebooks will load the child even more.
3. Briefcase. This is a flat bag with only one shoulder strap. It is because of this feature that experts do not recommend buying a briefcase for a first grader, because a one-sided load on children's shoulders is fraught with curvature of the spine and impaired posture.

So, which model of a school bag to choose? It all depends on the physique of the child and his age. For a large first-grader, a satchel is preferable, which will take care of the back and keep its shape if the child rides it down the hill. For a more slender student, it is better to take a light backpack, especially if he has an orthopedic back.

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Backpack for the first grader: three important principles

You need to choose a school backpack with your child, but remember that the functionality of the product is not as important for children as it is appearance. Parents also need to pay attention to a number of essential points: weight, size, structural strength. Let's consider them in more detail.

Backpack weight

Orthopedists have established hygiene standards for children's backpack A: The weight of the empty bag must not exceed 800 grams. Fully stocked schoolbag(with textbooks, notebooks and other accessories) should not weigh more than 9-10% of the child's body weight. Overloading is fraught with pain in the lower back, shoulders, and impaired posture.

Material strength

Many first-graders are not particularly thrifty with their belongings, so you need to choose backpack models made from the most durable fabric.

1. Many knapsacks are made of polyester - a fairly durable material that is resistant to abrasion and fading in the sun. It is not easy to break it, especially if the satchel is reinforced with steel thread. Such models are easy to clean with a damp cloth or cloth.
2. The best backpacks are made from waterproof materials. First-graders can get caught in the rain, drop their backpack in a puddle, or knock over a glass of juice on it. To prevent notebooks and books from being damaged, a thin layer resembling rubber is applied to the backpack.
3. Another useful device is the mesh on the back and shoulder straps. In this case, the backpack will not fall off the back and shoulders of the child, slide, causing him inconvenience and discomfort. In addition, the mesh ensures normal air circulation.

Product dimensions

Some parents take a backpack "for growth", guided by material considerations. It is not right! In order for the student to be able to comfortably carry a backpack, it is important to choose the right size as accurately as possible. The width of the "ideal" satchel does not exceed the width of the children's shoulders, and its lower edge runs along the waist of the first grader.

Orthopedic backpack for a future student

Which satchel is in high demand among parents? The answer is obvious - in the name of which the word "orthopedic" sounds. It implies that the model meets certain hygienic standards that protect the child's body from overload.

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It should be understood that such backpacks will not correct the posture of children, but will help to evenly distribute the load over the entire back, preventing pressure on any part of the spine. To be called anatomical, a knapsack must have the following features:

• a rigid back that will not allow the child to stoop and protect his back from sharp pencils and sharp book corners;
• two wide straps at least 4-8 centimeters wide, also equipped with a mesh;
• a hard bottom that will protect the child's lower back from the pressure of the textbooks lying in the satchel.

In addition to these advantages, the orthopedic model also has significant disadvantages:

• high price;
• large size and voluminous appearance;
• more weight than conventional models.

Let's go shopping

So, you and your child go for a satchel. You can also buy it on the market if you trust the seller, but it is best to buy things for children in specialized stores. The first step is to ask for a quality certificate for the product, then you need to carefully inspect the backpack, paying attention to several important points.

1. Adjust the straps - for high-quality satchels, the ability to adjust them is “worth” by default. As we have already said, the straps should not be very narrow (less than four centimeters). Their material is durable and soft fabric. To prevent the length of the straps from changing arbitrarily, manufacturers supply them with clamps. Otherwise, too long straps will load the spine, and too short will lead to stoop.
2. Pay attention to models equipped with additional functions and compartments. Small backpacks usually have one inner space and one outer pocket. Pick up a school bag with multiple sections for textbooks and notebooks, with side pockets. Some manufacturers additionally equip the backpack with a pencil case, a bag for second shoes and a sports uniform.
3. Make sure the fittings are reliable: the zipper does not stick, all fasteners open and close easily. In high-quality backpacks, the details are proportional, the seams are neatly stitched. Ask your child to check the fasteners and zippers for ease of use - it is he who will use them.
4. Check the safety of the materials from which the satchel is sewn. To do this, you need to open it and smell it. Cheap models of low quality often have an unpleasant "chemical" smell. You should not hope that in a month or two it will disappear, such “aromas” last a long time. In addition, smelling backpacks should not be purchased for allergic children.
5. Run a damp cloth over the outside of the backpack to check if it's painted well. If there are applications on the backpack, make sure that they do not peel off and do not come off when pressed with a finger.
6. Be sure to pay attention to the presence or absence of reflective stripes, straps and other stripes coated with fluorescent paints. Such elements are very important, since a child with such a backpack will be clearly visible on the roadway at night.

The first of September will come soon, which means that it is time to collect the child for school. This date is especially important for kids who will go there for the first time. A school backpack is an essential attribute of learning. It should be comfortable and safe, reliable and roomy, strong and durable. In addition, the portfolio should please the young student. Then the baby will be happy to pack his backpack and go to school.

Modern companies offer a wide selection of school backpacks. They differ in volume and size, degree of rigidity, design, configuration, cost and other parameters. It is important that it is not very heavy and at the same time contains the necessary textbooks and school supplies. Let's figure out how to choose the right school bag for a first grader. And we will find out which backpack is best for a student.

Dimensions and weight

Weight is the main parameter. Today, a portfolio with the necessary books, notebooks, folders and pencil cases, snacks and other items becomes extremely heavy. For a first grader, it becomes an unbearable burden. According to the expert, a fully equipped satchel should weigh up to 1.5 kg.

But keep in mind that the briefcase should not be too light, otherwise it will not keep its shape and will slide off the shoulders. A suitable weight for a school backpack for a first grader will be 800-1000 grams.

In addition, the school backpack should be the correct and comfortable size. In width, it should not be more than the width of the shoulders of the child. In this case, the length should reach the waist line.

Rigidity and shape

The next important parameter is the rigidity of the back. In this case, choose a rigid orthopedic or anatomical back with soft and comfortable upholstery. It correctly distributes the load and pressure on the shoulders and spine of the child, fits snugly to the back.

A backpack for a first grader should contain a solid frame, and on the outside - soft linings arranged in the form of the letter X. They provide the correct load, prevent the center of gravity from shifting back and keep their shape.

Modern models of school bags are equipped with anti-slip mesh and breathable ventilation inserts. This makes the backpack even more comfortable to wear. He will not slip off, and the back and shoulders will not sweat.

Additional waist and chest straps fix the satchel in a comfortable position and reduce the load. This will help correct posture, and the briefcase in the process of walking will not hang out. Suitable choice for the first grader will be a rectangular shape. Make sure it includes a sketchbook and folders.

Material and straps

When choosing a school backpack, pay attention to the straps. They should be soft and wide enough, with an adjustable length. A suitable width of the straps will be five to eight centimeters. It is better to choose products in the form of the letter S so that they follow the curve of the shoulder. Such straps are more comfortable and safe for health.

The satchel may additionally contain a handle. But straps are a must! Do not choose models with only a handle! And in order to choose a strong, reliable and durable backpack, pay attention to the product material and workmanship.

Modern products are made of polyester. Check that the model is well stitched and of high quality. It is great if the upper fabric is impregnated with a water-repellent composition. This backpack won't get wet. In addition, the product can be easily cleaned even with a damp cloth.

Some sections are sheathed inside with heat-resistant material. This will keep breakfast or lunch warm even in cold winters. In addition, some products are characterized by an additional frost-resistant coating. Such material will not crack, deform or freeze even in severe frost.

Fittings and internal arrangement

Choose briefcases that close with a zipper. This is a practical, comfortable and reliable clasp. The double lock will allow you to open the backpack in any direction without problems and in a short juice. Do not take models with Velcro or with a carabiner. In the first case, the lock is not reliable. And with a carbine, the baby may simply not cope.

The product must be spacious and functional. Therefore, pay attention to the number and quality of inner and outer pockets. Additional external pockets are ideal for storing a water bottle or a snack. Check that they are reliable, and nothing fell out from there. However, it is better that the breakfast compartment is located inside.

Inside there should be a pocket for an album and folders, an elastic band for fixing notebooks. Do not take models with a large number of small pockets. They are useless for first graders. Enough one or two pockets for the phone, keys, wallet.

Modern backpacks are necessarily equipped with reflectors, which will ensure the safety of the child. An excellent addition to the portfolio will be a bag or a bag for interchangeable shoes. In addition, some advanced models include a pencil case, a toy, a notebook folder, and so on. They are made in the same style and look harmonious.

• Choose a backpack together with your child. This will allow not only to choose a product to the taste of the baby, but also to try on a briefcase. After all, it is important to choose a model according to the size and height of the student, so that he is comfortable;
• Take a few textbooks with you to estimate the actual weight of a backpack that a child will wear almost every day. In addition, you will check what and how is placed inside;
• Rigid plastic bottom and legs increase the service life of the product, but increase the severity of the satchel;
• Transformer backpacks are convenient in that you can unfasten the sidewalls. This simplifies the use of the product. The child will quickly find what he needs;
• Vertical models do not protrude beyond the shoulders of the child, they distribute the load more evenly, therefore it is more convenient. But for children of short stature, it is advisable to take a horizontal briefcase, since a vertical one will put pressure on the lower back during walking and movement;
• Products must contain a rigid anatomical back and soft straps with a width of more than five centimeters, weigh up to 1 kg;
• Choose products with a removable frame, orthopedic pads and other details, this will make it easier to clean and wash the backpack. By removing these elements, you can easily wash the school bag in the washing machine.

The best backpack for a first grader

Caring for your school bag

In order for the backpack to last a long time and be safe for the child, it is important to ensure proper care behind the product. Clean your briefcase regularly and launder if necessary. For cleaning, use brushes or a vacuum cleaner with a soft and small nozzle, with minimal power.

If an unpleasant smell has arisen inside, and it does not disappear, and it is not possible to wash the product, the following method will do. In each compartment, put a bag of thick linen with activated charcoal tablets or salt inside. Close the briefcase and leave for a couple of days. Charcoal and salt will absorb odors.

For routine cleaning, open the bag and pockets, turning the top of the main compartment as far out as possible. Turn the briefcase over, shake the product and tap on the case. This will get rid of dust and small debris that accumulate inside, especially in seams and hard-to-reach areas.

Wipe the interior with antibacterial wipes. Wipe the outer surface with a damp cloth. Ventilate your backpack periodically. fresh air. Only soft models with removable frames and orthopedic inserts can be washed in a washing machine, as they deteriorate and lose beneficial features in water. If they are non-removable, wash them by hand.

How to wash a school backpack

Before washing, be sure to remove the frame and orthopedic pads, straps, removable elements and parts. Clean the product with a brush and a damp cloth, remove difficult stains. For washing machine close the locks, zippers, buttons and Velcro.

It is advisable to wash the backpack in a special mesh or laundry bag or a standard pillowcase to protect the drum of the machine from scratches and defects. Choose liquid gels, set the delicate wash mode with temperatures up to 40 degrees, with extra rinsing and no spin.

Hand wash is a gentle and delicate option that is suitable for washing any backpack, including those with a fixed frame or designed for hiking trips. For washing, use water with a temperature of 30 degrees, baby powder, liquid gel or soap shavings.

Dissolve the selected product in water and soak the briefcase for 10-30 minutes. After that, carefully wipe the inside and outside of the product with a sponge. Rinse the satchel in clean, cool water two to three times. Then wrap in a large terry towel or sheet and wring out gently.

We dry the washed briefcase in the fresh air away from the battery and electronic devices, from direct sunlight. Otherwise, the product will fade or burn out, and the shape will be deformed. Dry the thing to the end so that mold and an unpleasant smell do not appear inside.

Today the situation is changing dramatically. First-graders are forced to carry a set of textbooks and sportswear with them every day. The weight of these educational accessories in most cases balances on the verge of the physical capabilities of a small student. That is why, in order to maintain the correct posture and reduce the load on the back of the child, it is very important to choose a quality backpack.

Article outline:

Choosing a backpack for a first grader

1. The presence of an orthopedic back. This allows you to keep the baby's posture in a normal state, protects his growing spine from excessive pressure.


2. The dimensions of the backpack should not be excessively large. The child should move easily even with a loaded bag. Dangling below the waist, clapping on the legs with every step, the backpack will not add comfort to the child.


3. When choosing backpack, the presence of the future proud backpack owner is mandatory so that you can coordinate the appearance of the acquisition with it, and also try it on right there.


4. The backpack must have hard and flat bottom, which will not hang and put pressure on the weak lower back of a first-grader when walking.


5. Strap width should be sufficient not to crash into the shoulders of the unfortunate child and not to injure his psyche, already exhausted by the school. The optimal width is about four centimeters. Also, the material from which the straps are made must be mesh in order to freely pass air without causing perspiration and diaper rash.


6. Backpack material. It is important that the material is durable and hydrophobic (water-repellent). This is necessary to extend the life of the bag in extreme conditions. Children hit each other on the head with backpacks, throw them on cabinets, trees and other hard-to-reach objects. Therefore, if you do not have the desire to buy backpacks with a regularity of once every two weeks, purchase products made using a metal thread that reinforces (reinforces) the fabric of the backpack. In this case, he has a chance to hold out for a couple of months. The water-repellent fabric will keep the textbooks dry in case your little one gets caught in the rain. This can be facilitated by a rubberized layer of fabric. Most often, the most suitable material for sewing backpacks is polyester. It is durable, wear-resistant and waterproof. Backpacks made of this material are easy to clean and easy to wash, dry quickly.


7. Lightning. This element is also important for the normal operation of the backpack. For the convenience of the child, the zipper should be wide with a “dog” that is easy to grip. Also, it must be strong enough to withstand the massive attacks of children's fingers, their impatient twitches and maintain functionality. It is better if there are two "dogs" on the zipper. This will save time on opening the backpack in conditions of lack of time (the child is late for the lesson or is in a hurry to go home).


8. Top handle. Usually performed in the form of a handle with a leather or rubber patch for convenience, or in the form of a loop. In any case, it is strictly not recommended for children to carry a backpack holding this handle. Therefore, you should immediately inform the child about this.


9. Availability nets on the surface of the backpack, adjacent to the back, provides reliable grip and no slip, causing discomfort to the child when walking.


10. Also, when buying a backpack for a first grader, pay attention to the presence reflective elements sewn on it. These elements are extremely important even in a well-lit metropolis, as they significantly reduce the risk of being unnoticed by drivers of vehicles.


11. Execution quality. Do not chase cheapness and buy inexpensive low-quality backpacks. They can be made with toxic materials and have a strong and repulsive odor that can cause health problems for the student. It is better to overpay, but buy a product produced in compliance with all norms and standards.


12. Don't buy a backpack "for growth" or too small. This will adversely affect the health of the student.


13. Backpack weight. In the "equipped" state, a satchel with an orthopedic base and comfortable wide straps should not weigh more than ten percent of the child's weight. If this condition is violated, pain in the lumbar region and back may occur. Therefore, the weight of the backpack should be minimal. According to hygiene standards, the weight of a first-grader backpack should not exceed one and a half kilograms. The backpack itself should not weigh more than eight hundred grams.

Selection of an orthopedic backpack for a student

• A rigid back that protects the child's back from the pressure of the books lying in the backpack, preventing the child from hunching over.


• Wide straps measuring from four to eight centimeters, equipped with a mesh.


• Hard bottom to protect the child's lower back from the pressure of books.

• High price.


• Relatively large weight.


• "Dimensional" appearance.

Manufacturers and models of the best quality backpacks

1. . This model bag is made in the form of a bag with soft walls and a closing valve on top. The neck of the backpack is tightened with a cord or has a zipper. The valve closes with carabiners. The backpack traditionally has two or three large compartments and many small ones. This type of bag has one or two straps that allow you to carry it on your back. Traditionally, manufacturers make them in "boy" and "girl" versions. The only difference is the color and decor. The boys are cars and "transformers", the girls are pink ponies and Barbie. The backpack is very light and comfortable to wear.


2. knapsack. This is a modified version of the backpack. It has rigid ribs that give strength to the structure, two straps that allow you to carry it over your shoulders. The knapsack perfectly retains its shape and protects its contents from deformation. A significant disadvantage of this model is a significant weight due to the severity of the materials that give strength to the satchel. The minimum weight of an empty backpack is one kilogram. You can imagine the weight of this "accessory" in running order. The child simply bends from such a load.


3. Briefcase. It is a bag with a single shoulder strap and a flat shape for easy carrying on the side. Its walls are quite soft, but at the same time allow you to keep the contents intact. This type of bag is not recommended for use due to the one-sided load on the student's shoulders when carrying a briefcase on a single strap.

• Erich Krause. The backpacks of this world famous German company are made of high quality material, have an orthopedic back and wide shoulder straps. Their weight corresponds international standards in the health sector. For first-graders, the company offers a comfortable backpack with an optimal number of compartments and conveniently located small pockets. Backpacks are durable, made in moderate color scheme, are fastened with a latch.


• Hummingbird. Backpacks from this manufacturer have a zipper, have bright and emotional colors, and are covered with images of common cartoon and comic book characters. They are roomy, comfortable, orthopedic and light in weight.


• Belmil. This brand is represented by high-quality products made of durable and lightweight material, unobtrusive colors. Comfortable to wear, with several optimally thought out compartments. And yet, they are relatively inexpensive.


• Hama. This manufacturer offers, complete with a backpack, an additional bag for a "shift", a pencil case for a student's stationery, and a wallet. However, at the same time, he is overweight, burdensome for a first grader. These backpacks are the most expensive in their field.


• Der Die Das. The products of this company are equipped with reflective elements, an ergonomic back, have a low weight and attractive colors.


• Backpacks are also presented by McNeill, Sigikid, Lassig, Step by Step, and others.

For a first-grader, what factors need to be taken into account in order not to be mistaken, as well as how much a backpack a first-grader needs, read in our material.

For parents of first-graders, the question of which backpack is better to buy for a child for school is especially relevant. If parents with older children already know what is needed, then the mothers of those who go to school for the first time are usually at a loss. That is why we have collected helpful tips how to choose a backpack to school for a first grader.

After all, when choosing a school bag, you need to know what to look for.

How to choose a briefcase or satchel for a first grader

Initially, you need to forget about briefcase bags as a satchel for a first grader. Carrying heavy things (and school backpacks are not light) is very harmful not only for a fragile children's spine, but even for an adult back.

Based on this, an iron rule No. 1 is formed when choosing a briefcase or satchel for a first grader - it should be a backpack with an orthopedic back. So that the load on the back and shoulders is evenly distributed.

"For children, it is very important to evenly distribute the weight on the back and shoulders. Therefore, for junior schoolchildren bags that are worn over the shoulder do not fit at all - says orthopedist Mikhail Kozlov. - For children under 15 years old, it is better to buy orthopedic backpacks. And carrying heavy weights can cause early stunting."

Photo how to choose school bags or backpacks for a first grader everydaysavvy.com

11 important rules how to choose a portfolio for a first grader

1. Schoolbag should not be wider than the child's back, and its weight should not exceed 10-15% of the weight of your first grader or first grader. Without prejudice to health, children aged 6-9 can bring a backpack to school weighing no more than two kilograms. That is, an empty satchel should weigh 500-800 g.
2. When choosing a portfolio for a first grader, make sure that the backpack reached the child's waist, maximum - 5 centimeters lower. Heavy textbooks are best placed close to the child's back. It is important to check with your student at the end of the working day if they have pain or weakness in their hands after wearing a backpack.
3. The "proper school backpack" has orthopedic back wall with dense inserts, wide shoulder straps and an ergonomic back.
4. Also, when choosing a backpack to school for a first grader, pay attention to the presence reflective strips which will ensure safety on the road at night or in bad weather.
5. The weight of a school backpack for a primary school student should not exceed 1200 grams.
6. Schoolbag straps and straps must be adjustable so that the child has the opportunity to adjust them to their height and clothing. The straps should be strong, wide and soft so as not to cut into the shoulders of the child. The width of the straps is not less than 4 centimeters.
7. It is important to remember that a school backpack or satchel that you decide to buy for a first grader should keep its shape well and not deform when folded into it school supplies. Check that such a backpack should have a solid bottom so that the textbooks do not "sag" and do not put pressure on the lower back.
8. It is very good if the portfolio you want to buy in the first class will have additional external and internal pockets. They will help the child to conveniently place, and then find a lot of necessary things. For example, a mobile phone, a pencil case with stationery, a bottle of water or sandwiches for lunch.
9. The fabric of the school bag must be durable and waterproof., because children love to run through puddles, and if the backpack suddenly finds itself in the "center of events", it must remain dry and unharmed.
10. The back of a first-grader's school backpack should ideally be lined with mesh so that the child does not sweat.
11. Of course, the main connoisseur of a school bag or backpack should be a schoolboy. Trying on a briefcase is better filled so that the child can appreciate its convenience.

Backpacks from the Ukrainian brand meet all these rules "1 Veresnya". Durable material, orthopedic back, reinforced bottom and straps that allow you to evenly distribute the load on the back of a first-grader, as well as many different details (pockets for water, a silicone handle, legs at the bottom of the backpack, a variety of patterns and styles) make these satchels the right choice. By the way, the brand has been cooperating with Disney for more than eight years, so it is at 1 Veresnya that you should look for licensed backpacks with your favorite Disney characters, for example, from the cartoons Cars or Frozen.

In the photo, school backpacks for first graders from the Ukrainian brand with a 15-year history "1 Veresnya"

How much backpack does a first grader need

Each school has its own rules. Therefore, the volume of the knapsack that a first-grader needs cannot be called with 100% accuracy.

It is much more important when choosing a backpack to school for a first grader to take into account its size and shape. Too large a briefcase will not correctly distribute the load on the child's spine. It is for this reason that you should not buy a backpack for growth.

To choose the right size backpack for a first grader, you need to try it on a child.

The upper edge of the briefcase should not rest against the back of the child's head, and the lower one should not be lower than his lower back.

After the abolition of homework in the first grade in Ukraine, children usually carry few things in their briefcases. This is mainly a pencil case, removable shoes, sportswear, materials for drawing and crafts.

Photo school bag for a first grader dailymom.com

Schoolbags for boys and girls: teaching a child to handle a satchel

After buying a briefcase for school, boys and girls should learn how to handle it. Explain to your child that you can not carry a backpack or satchel on one shoulder or drag it by the handle on the floor.

Books should be folded from the back of the backpack so that nothing presses or pricks the child's back.

If something doesn't fit in a backpack, it's better to take an extra bag (lunchbox or gym bag) rather than trying to fit everything into one briefcase.

Practice with your future first grader putting notebooks and books into his new school backpack, opening and closing zippers or compartments with buttons.

We hope that our advice on how to choose a school bag for a first grader will be useful for you and you will buy an excellent school bag or backpack for your child in the first grade.