Backpack Safety Relay
A relay where each student must pack, put on, and carry a backpack using good posture habits: a sensible load, both straps, snug against the back, and lifted by bending the knees. It applies posture awareness to everyday life.
How to play
- Use a sample backpack to teach the four keys: pack only what you need, use both straps, tighten them so it sits snug, and lift it by bending your knees (4 min).
- Form 5 teams of 5 in lines behind a cone; 12 yards away, each team has an open backpack and a pile of books and light objects.
- On the whistle, the first student runs to the backpack, packs the 3 items on today's card, puts it on correctly, and walks quickly back to the line.
- There, a teammate checks the four keys; if all is good, the carrier takes it off, sets it down by bending the knees, and unpacks it.
- The next teammate carries the empty backpack and items back to the pile and repeats; play three rounds with a new item card each time (9 min).
- Finish with 3 minutes for each student to share one thing they will change when packing their own backpack at home.
Rules
- Walk briskly, never run, while wearing the backpack.
- The backpack should weigh no more than a few light books; the teacher checks the load before starting.
- If the checker spots a mistake, the carrier fixes it before moving on, with no penalty.
- Always pick up and set down the backpack by bending your knees.
Variations
Easier
Skip choosing items and focus only on putting on and lifting the backpack correctly.
Standard
Three rounds with item cards, correct fit, and a teammate check.
Harder
Add unnecessary items to the pile so students must decide what to leave out and pack the heaviest items closest to the back.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student can be the lead checker or hang the backpack on the back of the wheelchair using the same keys.
- Autism: show the four keys on a picture card the student can refer to.
- Fitness level: lengthen the outbound jog, without the backpack, for students who need more activity.
Learning goals
- Know the keys to carrying a backpack in a healthy way.
- Use correct technique to lift objects from the floor.
- Check and correct classmates' posture respectfully.
Equipment for a class of 25
- backpacks: 5
- books: 20
- cones: 10
Teacher tip
Ask students to bring their own empty backpacks and check buckles and straps. Send families a note with the four keys.
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