Computer Ergonomics for Kids

How to help

By Dr. Larry Nickens, Goldsboro Pediatrics

Providing everything from entertainment to learning, computers are a child’s best source in today’s fast paced world. Computer games, Internet, school work; there is a whole list of possible things to do on a computer, and it seems our younger generation knows them all. So as they continue to use their computers more and more everyday, we need to take concern that our young people are learning the proper technique of using a computer.

More than ever, middle school aged children are complaining of neck and back pain, along with other symptoms of repetitive stress injuries (RSI). The age of computer users is only getting younger and these problems will continue to plague them throughout their life if not addressed. RSI is caused when stress is placed on a joint or tendon and, because of repetitive actions, does not have the opportunity to recover and thus becomes irritated. In turn, the body increases fluid in that area to try and relieve the stress.

Teaching good computer habits from home is the best way to prevent RSI in your child’s future. Because computer labs take a one-size-fits-all approach to setting up computers, your child should learn how to adapt their computer space to meet their needs.

What are good computer habits?

Good habits, formed at home, will inevitably be carried with your child no matter where they are. But, they will need your help to make sure they successfully develop these habits. Follow these simple steps:

1. Make sure they don’t slump or crouch in their chair. An easy way to prevent this is to own a good computer chair that will encourage good posture while they sit. This will alleviate any stress being put on the shoulders or spine.
2. Their legs should be positioned comfortably under the table, with their feet flat on the floor and legs relatively perpendicular to the spine. This will also encourage good sitting posture.
3. Keyboard position is important also. Make sure the keyboard is close to the body so to create a 90-degree angle at the elbow.
4. Make sure you explain to them that pounding on the keyboard is also not necessary, but a gentle tap will work just fine; keeping their fingers and wrists aligned while typing.
5. Break Time! Make your child a snack or do an activity with them, that way you will pull them away from a computer screen and let their body relax.
6. If taking a break is not feasible [i.e. writing a paper for school or homework] then encourage them to look at something far away and focus on that every once in a while, to help prevent eyestrain. Having a well-lit working area will help too.
7. The best way to encourage good computer habits at home is to lead by example! Practice these steps yourself so your child will notice that how important they really are.

1. Go Shopping. Having ergonomic products for your computer will help in preventing RSI. There are many products that are now ergonomically sound, such as keyboards, chairs, mice, screens, and foot rests. Some companies build keyboards and mice just for children. These keyboards and mice have smaller buttons with less space in between the keys as well as smaller mice to accommodate their small hands. A track ball mouse may be easier for a child as well.
2. There is also software now being sold that teaches children and adults how to stay safe while at the computer. Investing in a product like this, even though it is a computer program, will still encourage better computer habits, and is fun for the kids. By altering the way you use the computer at home will shape the way your children use the computer all the time. Make sure they don’t slouch in their chair, and they keep their legs relaxed, feet on the floor, use gentle taps on the keyboard instead of pounding, and take frequent breaks. Buying ergonomic products and software will also aid in your pursuit of a healthier computer experience.