Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Schools across Metro Detroit are back in session, and for many families, that means the back-to-school scramble is in full swing. And this year? It is costing more than ever.
New data shows parents are spending an average of $746 on back-to-school shopping. Seven out of 10 say they are spending more than last year — and the reason is simple: everything costs more.
But parents are fighting back. More than six in 10 compare prices, and nearly half wait for sales before they buy.
Now, let’s talk about backpacks — not how expensive they are, but how much they weigh.
Doctors say kids shouldn’t carry more than 10 to 15 percent of their body weight.
For a 100-pound child, that bag should weigh no more than 10 to 15 pounds. And if they’re trying to be cool and throwing it over one shoulder, stop them. One shoulder puts serious strain on their back and spine.
Most schools in our area are back now, but a handful of districts don’t start until after Labor Day.
So, for parents with an extra week, here is a quick checklist. To adjust sleep schedules, shift bedtime 15 minutes earlier every few days. All 50 states require vaccines before school, so call your doctor now. And mental health matters, too. Check in with your kids.
Dr. Tiffany Binno, a pediatrician at Henry Ford Health, joined Local 4 Live to walk us through all of it.
Welcome to the official YouTube channel of WDIV Local 4 News in Detroit!
Expect more coverage of Southeast Michigan and surrounding communities with breaking news, weather, original reporting, investigations, and local sports.
We’re proud to be part of the Metro Detroit community.
Watch more from Local 4 on YouTube: youtube.com/@ClickOnDetroitLocal4WDIV/videos
📰 More news stories: clickondetroit.com
▶️ Watch Local 4 News live: clickondetroit.com/live
📩 Sign up for Local 4 newsletters: clickondetroit.com/account/newsletters
Schools across Metro Detroit are back in session, and for many families, that means the back-to-school scramble is in full swing. And this year? It is costing more than ever.
New data shows parents are spending an average of $746 on back-to-school shopping. Seven out of 10 say they are spending more than last year — and the reason is simple: everything costs more.
But parents are fighting back. More than six in 10 compare prices, and nearly half wait for sales before they buy.
Now, let’s talk about backpacks — not how expensive they are, but how much they weigh.
Doctors say kids shouldn’t carry more than 10 to 15 percent of their body weight.
For a 100-pound child, that bag should weigh no more than 10 to 15 pounds. And if they’re trying to be cool and throwing it over one shoulder, stop them. One shoulder puts serious strain on their back and spine.
Most schools in our area are back now, but a handful of districts don’t start until after Labor Day.
So, for parents with an extra week, here is a quick checklist. To adjust sleep schedules, shift bedtime 15 minutes earlier every few days. All 50 states require vaccines before school, so call your doctor now. And mental health matters, too. Check in with your kids.
Dr. Tiffany Binno, a pediatrician at Henry Ford Health, joined Local 4 Live to walk us through all of it.
Welcome to the official YouTube channel of WDIV Local 4 News in Detroit!
Expect more coverage of Southeast Michigan and surrounding communities with breaking news, weather, original reporting, investigations, and local sports.
We’re proud to be part of the Metro Detroit community.
Watch more from Local 4 on YouTube: youtube.com/@ClickOnDetroitLocal4WDIV/videos
📰 More news stories: clickondetroit.com
▶️ Watch Local 4 News live: clickondetroit.com/live
📩 Sign up for Local 4 newsletters: clickondetroit.com/account/newsletters
