Wow. They grow up so fast. So you’re choosing a toddler backpack for your child already? It seems like only yesterday you were marveling over their first words. You chose their first “dress up outfit” and got their first haircut. Now is that wonderful but scary time in a child’s life, and yours, when they shuffle off to pre-school. They look so vulnerable and tiny. But in their minds, they are a big boy or girl, and they are dying to express themselves with their very own toddler backpack. And you know that in what seems like the blink of an eye, you will stand teary-eyed as they graduate from high school, then college. So savor this special moment, and follow the tips below, and you and your child will have the smoothest, easiest transition in this very crucial time in your child’s development.
Your children, as young as they are, have already developed 80% of their development at the pre-school age. That means that they definitely have their own idea about what toddler backpack design and style they want. And it is important to let them choose their own “style.” This is one of the first chances your little one will be able to express their individuality to the world at large, and it is important they feel confident about the pack they will be carrying to school every day.
While you want your child to be expressive, make sure that whatever store you decide to shop at, the toddler backpack selection is large, and they pass all requirements your child’s school stipulates. You can imagine, I am sure, how painful and difficult it will be if you have to take the toddler backpack your child chooses out of his or her hands and tell them to choose another. Not a pretty scene.
Now, long before you go pack-shopping, discuss with them the big responsibility that having their very own toddler backpack carries along with it. Let them know that they will be solely responsible for keeping track of it, keeping it clean, emptying it every night, and packing it every day, and making it last. Tell them that if they show they can handle this responsibility, they will be given more responsibility, because that shows they are growing up into a big boy or girl. Also be sure to put contact info and emergency numbers inside, and let your child know where they are.
Also, parents probably do not think safety when shopping for a toddler backpack, but over 7,000 adults and children are admitted to the emergency room every year because of backpack mishaps! Your child will no doubt want to carry everything they own with them at all times, but let them know they have to be careful, and make sure you check their pack weight the first few times to ensure they are not getting overburdened. Make sure the straps are evenly tightened, the load is centered, and most of all, that the pack is the right size for your child.
So, let them express themselves, teach them responsibility, give them some room to grow, and teach them safe “toddler backpack” tips, and you and your children will have a rewarding, memorable experience during this important stage in their lives.