HOUSTON – It's prime time to shop for school supplies, including backpacks.
There are lot of things to consider. Even just an embroidered name on that backpack could make them an easy target for predators.
Dr. Sara Lappe at Cleveland Clinic Children's says, "If their name is spelled out on their backpacks someone that doesn't know your child may use that name on that backpack to be able to convince your child them know them, when they really don't."
How a backpack fits is another factor parents should consider.
The first thing you should look for are backpacks with two wide straps.
Two wide straps will help distribute weight evenly and the width of the straps will prevent them from digging in and causing pain.
In addition, the back of the backpack should be padded.
It's also important to remember that a loaded backpack should not weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of your child's weight.
So, for a 75 pound child that's about 11 pounds in the backpack.
And how that weight is packed makes a difference too.
Doctors say you want to have the heaviest books closer to your child's back so that the weight is distributed and your child doesn't lose their balance.