Backpacks are loose parts kids can use to stow and haul other loose parts. This is especially enticing to kids interested in Transporting and Enclosing play schemas. It turns out many kids go through stages where they are compelled to pack things up and haul them about.

I had a hard time finding photos of kids happily playing with backpacks for this post. Most shots were of the “Off to school I go, and I’m miserable” variety. I mean, look at this guy’s face:

He looks like his family just drove off without him–and took his favorite stuffed animal and puppy with them…on his birthday (scroll down to see the whole photo). Give me a hand: reach out if you have a kids-enjoying-backpacks picture or two I can add to this post.

Anyway, back-based packs can be a lot of fun, even if I can’t share photographic proof in this post. I mean, they have straps, and pockets, and zippers, and sometimes clips and bungee cord.

Among other things, backpack play support heavy work–something today’s kids aren’t doing enough of, although it is important for sensory integration and school readiness. Here’s a short video we put together on the topic:

Sad Photos Of Kids With Backpacks

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