With back-to-school time in the U.S. underway, bulletproof backpacks and ballistic gear are becoming more common on shopping lists following last week’s deadly Minnesota school shooting.

Children in the United States are returning to school as concerns over gun violence remain high. Parents are sharing videos on social media showing preparations for potential school shootings, including equipping children with ballistic protection and bulletproof backpacks. Some brands have responded by marketing child-friendly bulletproof backpacks and protective shields, although these products offer limited protection against certain firearms. Schools are also implementing additional security measures, such as armoured panels and AI systems designed to detect weapons. The issue remains urgent, with 44 shootings reported in schools and universities in the country since the beginning of the year.

U.S. children return to school under threat of gun violence

It's a scenario no parent or child should be preparing for. On social media, parents are showing their rehearsals for the unthinkable. What to do if a gunman enters the school? These videos of parents equipping their children with ballistic protection have racked up millions of views. One influencer has filmed her child's back to school bags. She collaborates with a bulletproof backpack brand that says their product is to help parents feel less powerless. I'm sure every single other mom feels that way as well when it comes to how our government has handled or not handled this situation where kids are still dying in their classroom. As students return to their classrooms after the summer, last Wednesday was marked by a deadly shooting in Minnesota, where a 23-year-old man opened fire, killing two children and injuring scores of others. The tragedy prompted some brands to promote bulletproof backpacks in child-friendly colours, with a price tag around 200 euros, or protective shields that can be slipped on. Whilst the backpack can defend against handgun shots, it's powerless against assault rifles, which are often used in mass shootings. Definitely do not stop this bullet. It's not made to. Some schools are equipping armoured panels that can be rolled out in the classroom in case of an intrusion. Others are turning to AI to detect the shape of a weapon on site and sound the alarm. The United States has seen 44 shootings in schools and universities since the beginning of the year.

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