Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the centre of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10% to 20% of your child’s body weight. Go through the pack with your child weekly and remove unneeded items to keep it light.
Remind your child to always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.
Adjust the pack so that the bottom sits at your child’s waist.
Developing good homework and study habits
Create an environment that is encouraging to doing homework starting at a young age. Children need a consistent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions and promotes study.
Schedule ample time for homework; build this time into choices about participation in after school activities.
Establish a household rule that the TV and other electronic distractions stay off during homework time.
Supervise computer and internet use.
By secondary school, it’s not uncommon for teachers to ask students to submit homework electronically and perform other tasks on a computer. If your child doesn’t have access to a computer or the internet at home, work with teachers and school administration to develop appropriate accommodations.
Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child’s homework for them.
Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. Close the books for a few minutes, stretch and take a break periodically.
If your child is struggling with a particular subject, speak with your child’s teacher for recommendations on how you or another person can help your child at home or at school.
If your child is having difficulty focusing on or completing homework, discuss this with your child’s teacher, school counsellor or health care provider.
For general homework problems that cannot be worked out with the teacher, a tutor may be considered.
Some children need extra help organising their homework. Checklists, timers and parental supervision can help overcome homework problems.
Some children may need help remembering their assignments. Work with your child and their teacher to develop an appropriate way to keep track of their assignments – such as an assignment notebook.