Charlie isn’t going to school since he has graduated but I wanted to let you know September 17th was National School Backpack Awareness Day #SchoolBackpackAwarenessDay. Even if children are #Homeschooled I’m sure they use a backpack and that is why I wanted to make you aware of #SchoolBackpackAwaressDay.
National School Backpack Awareness Day falls on September 17th, which strives to make sure students wear backpacks safely. Did you know improper wearing of a backpack can lead to back pain or injury, which can impact learning. On National School Backpack Awareness Day teachers, students and parents come together to make sure families are aware of the risks — and that backpacks are being worn properly. It’s for the children.
How to Observe National School Backpack Awareness Day
- Attend an eventExperts can provide instructions on how to manage backpacks. Find out just how heavy they can get!
- Share it on socialEveryone knows either a parent or student on Facebook or Twitter. Get social and remind friends and family about this day.
- Write down tipsUse a visual printout or bullet-point list to remind everyone about the basics of backpack safety.
Why National School Backpack Awareness Day is Important
It keeps students safe
Backpacks worn incorrectly can lead to pain or injury. That’s why it’s so important to check the weight and use them properly.
It brings the community together
National Backpack Awareness Day brings everyone together to learn about backpack safety. It’s an opportunity to reach out to parents, caretakers and students.
It helps kids
Not only is this a chance to highlight backpack safety, it’s also a chance for the community to learn about the challenges their students are facing as they carry heavier packs, loaded with books and other stuff.
Here’s a homeschool-friendly lesson plan idea to celebrate National School Backpack Awareness Day on September 17 🧠🎒:
🎒 National School Backpack Awareness Day: Homeschool Lesson Plan
🗓 Date: September 17
📌 Theme: “Pack It Light, Wear It Right”
📣 Hashtag: #SchoolBackpackAwarenessDay
🧠 Learning Objectives
- Understand the importance of proper backpack use.
- Learn how to measure and adjust backpack weight.
- Explore the impact of heavy backpacks on posture and health.
📚 Activities
1. Backpack Weigh-In
- Use a bathroom scale to weigh your child’s backpack.
- Compare it to 10% of their body weight (recommended max).
- Discuss what items are essential and what can be left out.
2. Backpack Anatomy & Ergonomics
- Label parts of a backpack: straps, compartments, padding.
- Demonstrate proper wearing techniques: both straps, adjusted height, snug fit.
- Use visuals from AOTA’s Backpack Day handouts.
3. Creative Expression
- Coloring contest using the OT Rex Junior coloring page.
- Write a short story or comic about a superhero who teaches backpack safety.
4. STEM Connection
- Calculate backpack weight percentages.
- Design a “perfect backpack” using paper or digital tools.
5. Health & Wellness Discussion
- Talk about posture, muscle strain, and injury prevention.
- Watch short videos or read articles on backpack-related injuries.
🧵 Wrap-Up
- Share your activities on social media using #SchoolBackpackAwarenessDay.
- Create a checklist for safe backpack use and hang it near your homeschool area.
Would you like me to turn this into a printable worksheet or add more STEM or art extensions?
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
