Why Rolling Backpacks Face School Bans

Why Are Some Schools Banning Rolling Backpacks?

Student Well-being Comes First

In several schools in the United Arab Emirates, parents are being requested via a special circular, ahead of the new school year, not to send their children to school with rolling bags. The reasoning behind this decision prioritizes health and safety concerns over fashion or aesthetics.

Previously, education authorities in Abu Dhabi emphasized that the weight of a school bag should not exceed 20% of a child's body weight. Consequently, an increasing number of Emirati schools have implemented regulations concerning the weight and design of school bags. The goal: to prevent spinal issues, muscle pain, and musculoskeletal complaints, which can develop even at a very young age.

Why Are Rolling Bags a Problem?

Rolling bags might initially seem like a practical choice since they are not carried directly on the back. However, schools argue that these bags pose several risks:

Navigating stairs: pulling can strain the wrist and shoulder, and while climbing stairs, many students have to lift the bag, thus transferring weight back to the upper body.

Tripping hazards: the protruding handles and wheels can lead to frequent trips in crowded hallways.

Noise and clutter: rolling bags can disrupt lessons with their noise, and their size makes them difficult to store in lockers or under desks.

Underdeveloped posture: improper use can distort children's posture and gait in the long run.

What Do Schools Recommend?

Several institutions – such as some international schools in Abu Dhabi – have introduced age-appropriate recommendations. For younger, lower-grade students, where shoulder girdles are still developing, lightweight rolling bags are acceptable. However, for middle and upper-grade students, ergonomic, well-chosen backpacks are recommended.

Schools urge parents to pack bags according to the daily schedule and avoid unnecessary items. They also mention that lockers and digital teaching materials available in schools help ease the load.

What Do Doctors Say?

Healthcare professionals nationwide support this initiative. Although rolling bags can reduce direct back strain, they are not considered safe. Improper use can lead to muscle pain, balance disorders, and even spinal problems.

Children often pull them with poor posture or have to carry them while climbing stairs. This increases the strain on joints and the spine over time.

Experts thus advise parents to consider not only the type of bag but also its usage, weight, and design.

Digital Transition and Smart Solutions

Some schools are already actively supporting digital learning forms: under the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy, students can access learning materials on their own devices, eliminating the need to carry heavy books. This approach not only reduces physical strain but also promotes adaptation to modern technologies.

Summary

Restricting rolling bags in UAE schools is not to be seen as a ban but a conscious step towards health protection. The aim is to ensure children’s long-term well-being, reduce accident risks, and improve the tidiness of the school environment. Parents are responsible for choosing solutions that are not only practical but also considerate of their child's health.

(Source of the article: School recommendations.)