Should a 2-year-old be allowed to carry a backpack?

We bought a pink kid’s backpack for Claire when she started going to day care. It was never meant for her though. It was for us to carry her day care stuff in. Claire, being Claire, started insisting on carrying it. The first time she carried it, it was so big and heavy for her that it pulled her backwards onto her bum. Guess how old she was then? She was 2. But if you ask me if a 2-year-old should be allowed to carry a backpack, the answer is still yes. 2-year-olds have lots of fun with an appropriately sized backpack. We just need to buy them the right one.

How old are toddlers when they start carrying their first backpack?

Most toddlers can carry a backpack safely from about one and a half years of age. As long as they can walk steadily around carrying a toy, they are ready to carry a little backpack. Read: Can a 1-year-old carry a backpack?

Why would I want to give my 2-year-old a backpack?

Because they love backpacks! 2-year-olds are starting to assert their individuality and develop their imagination. A backpack allows them to claim ownership of something uniquely theirs. They can also use it for make-belief play. Claire pretends she’s me, going to work with her backpack – because I DO go to work with my backpack!

What size backpack is good for a 2-year-old?

A good rule of thumb is to make sure your 2-year-old’s backpack doesn’t go below their hip bone. Based on the size of an average 2-year-old, their backpack should be a maximum length of 9 inches and maximum width of 6 inches. However, this very much depends on your toddler. Read my guide on how to measure your toddler for a backpack. They should also not carry a backpack that is heavier than 10% of their body weight (The average weight of a 2-year-old is about 26-27 pounds). Most toddler backpacks are a lot lighter than this but you need to take into account all the random knick knacks that they will stuff into it.

What are some safety guidelines for toddlers using a backpack?

• Make sure your toddler’s backpack is of appropriate dimensions.
• The weight of the backpack plus all that is in it should not be more than 10% of their body weight.
• Buy a backpack with safety features like wide padded straps and waist straps.
• The first time they put their backpack on, adjust all the straps and check the size and fit.
• Watch your toddler put on and take off their backpack. If they are struggling, it’s too big and heavy.
• Observe how they stand and walk around with their backpack on. They should be standing and walking straight. Their backpack should not be making them lean forward or bend backwards.
• Make sure they are wearing both straps rather than just one.
• Check your toddler regularly for skin abrasions from straps that are too tight or bags that are too heavy on the little shoulders.
• If your toddler complains of back pain, check it out. And check to make sure they are not sneaking in a few more things into their backpack when you’re not looking, making it heavier than it should be.

How do I choose a backpack for my 2-year-old toddler?

Style

2-year-olds can use backpacks with large zipper tags. They are often attracted to brightly-colored bags and ones with their favorite cartoon character. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices of appropriately-sized backpacks, let them make their choice.

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Size

A heavy backpack can lead to aches and other ailments. As mentioned, the maximum length of your toddler’s backpack should be 9 inches and the maximum width should be 6 inches. The truth is, finding a backpack small enough for your little munchkin is like looking for a needle in a haystack. But if you’re good with a needle and thread (no pun intended), you can try making your own mini toddler backpack from a lunch bag. Most lunch bags are about 9 inches long, the perfect size for a 2-year-old! Check out this video tutorial:

Safety features

Safety features to look for are padded adjustable shoulder straps, a waist strap and a padded back. If your child is attending day care and needs a name tag, make sure their name is on the inside of the bag. Never write your child’s name on the outside of their bag.

Material

2-year-olds are a messy bunch. Backpacks get dirty within the day. Try to buy backpacks that can be machine-washed to save you precious time. Water-resistant backpacks tend to be lighter and more durable.

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What can I put in my 2-year-old’s backpack?

Most 2-year-olds should be able to carry a little water bottle and a snack box easily. you can also let them put in other items like their favorite stuffed toy so they feel special when they carry it around. Some parents add in a favorite picture book and a notebook with crayons or colored pencils. Keep in mind the weight limit: Never let your toddler carry more than 10% their body weight. The lighter, the better. No matter the weight, if your 2-year-old is walking bent forwards or leaning backwards, it’s too heavy for them. Is your toddler going on 3? Read what size backpack should a 3-year-old have?

To wrap up

Backpacks are great for 2-year-olds, as long as it is appropriately sized and isn’t too heavy for them.