It’s that time again — new shoes, fresh notebooks, and… a backpack that weighs as much as your child’s torso. 😬
As parents, we’re focused on getting our kids off to a great start. But there are two silent posture wreckers that sneak in every school year:
👉 Overloaded backpacks
👉 Too much screen time
And both can set your child up for neck pain, back pain, poor posture, and even headaches.
🎒 The Backpack Rule
Here’s what I tell every parent who walks through our door:
Your child’s backpack should weigh no more than 10–15% of their body weight.
That means:
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If your child weighs 60 lbs, their backpack should be no more than 6–9 lbs.
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It should be worn with both straps, not slung over one shoulder.
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The heaviest books should sit closest to their back.
A backpack that hangs too low or pulls back on their shoulders can actually change their spinal curve over time. And that’s something we want to prevent.
📱 The Screen-Time Slouch
Now let’s talk tech.
Between homework, group chats, YouTube, and gaming, kids are on screens more than ever. And every time they look down at a phone or tablet in their lap, their head tilts forward — which adds up to 10 extra pounds of strain on the neck.
It’s called “tech neck,” and yes, it’s happening to elementary schoolers.
Here are 3 screen sanity rules we use in our house:
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Limit recreational screen time after school
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Shut off all screens at least 1 hour before bed (sleep = recovery time!)
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Teach your kids to hold devices at eye level, not in their lap
✅ Want help?
This week, we’re offering free backpack safety checks in the office.
Bring your kiddo in with their backpack, and we’ll weigh it, assess their posture, and give you tips personalized to their body.
No pressure. No pitch. Just one less thing to stress about this school year.
It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should be intentional.
📍 Atkinson Family Chiropractic
7585 NC-73 Hwy, Ste J, Denver, NC
📞 (704) 827-6560
Let’s start the year off with strong spines and fewer screen slouches.
Less pain. More life.
MEET DR. DEVIN ATKINSON
With 20 years of experience in the chiropractic field, Dr. Devin Atkinson is a seasoned expert dedicated to holistic well-being. Leading Atkinson Family Chiropractic, Dr. Devin combines a passion for chiropractic care with a commitment to empowering individuals on their path to optimal health. He possesses a deep understanding of the body’s intricate connections and is eager to share his insights into true health and wellness. Join Dr. Devin on this enlightening journey and unlock your full wellness potential.
FOLLOW DR. LORI’S JOURNEY
Stay updated on Dr. Lori’s fight against cancer by visiting her blog at loriatkinsondc.com/blog.
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FALL WELLNESS
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STAYING HEALTHY DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR
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NEUROPATHY
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VAGUS NERVE
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WEIGHT LOSS
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CANCER PREVENTION
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GETTING COMFORTABLE BEING UNCOMFORTABLE
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Ready to embark on your wellness journey? Contact Atkinson Family Chiropractic for personalized guidance and expert chiropractic care. Serving Denver, Stanley, Iron Station, Maiden, Sherrills Ford, Lincolnton, and the Western LKN area.