[header] How to choose your toddler's first backpack [title] Make sure your child can carry a backpack. [step] Backpacks can shift your child's center of gravity, so they'll need to be good walkers before they start wearing one. If your toddler still stumbles regularly and has trouble carrying things while walking, they may not be ready to carry a backpack. 
[title] Ask if the school has any requirements. [step] Some preschools and daycares don't allow wheeled bags, large backpacks, or bags with characters on them.