According to her, the problem of heavy backpacks is becoming increasingly relevant.
“It is impossible to find children with light backpacks. Almost all of them carry heavy backpacks due to the extensive and complex curriculum,” she noted.
Kushubakova provided data on the permissible weight of backpacks according to sanitary standards:
- for students in grades 1-2 — 1.5 kilograms;
- for grades 3-4 — 2 kilograms;
- for grades 5-6 — 2.5 kilograms;
- for grades 7-8 — 3.5 kilograms;
- for grades 9-12 — 4 kilograms.
However, based on her observations, many younger schoolchildren carry backpacks weighing 3-4 kilograms or even more, as they have to take all their textbooks and additional notebooks. Therefore, it is necessary to choose quality backpacks. “The back part should fit snugly against the back, the top should not press on the neck, and the bottom should be at waist level. The straps should be adjustable,” Kushubakova explained.
She added that constant pressure on the nape and straps that press too hard can negatively affect the cervical spine.
“This can lead to apathy and drowsiness in the child, and in some cases even to loss of consciousness,” the expert warned. “Girls are advised not to carry handbags on one shoulder, as such a load should be distributed across both shoulders. Otherwise, this can cause various forms of scoliosis. About half of graduates finish school with this condition. Spinal deformity also affects internal organs, so the choice of a backpack should be taken very seriously,” added the sanitary doctor.
It is worth noting that in Kyrgyzstan, as part of the transition to a 12-year education system, textbooks are being updated. Parents have taken to social media to complain that the new textbooks are too bulky and heavy.
