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Computing and Kids

Healthy Computing for Today's Kids

Children and teens are spending more and more time sitting at a computer workstation to do homework, surf the Internet, and play video games. How they position themselves in a chair, and how they use the computer equipment can affect not only their comfort, but also their health. Occupational therapists are trained to perform an "ergonomic" evaluation, or an evaluation that determines how well a person fits into his or her environment. A person who does not sit correctly in a chair or strains to use a computer could suffer back and neck pain, and eyestrain. Most computer equipment and workstations are built to fit adults, but a few adjustments can be made to a child's work area to promote a healthy lifestyle free of pain.

What can an occupational therapist do?

• Evaluate a child's current computer workstation setup to determine whether it is ergonomically correct to prevent unnecessary strain.
• Advise parents on what equipment can be used to create a healthy workstation, such as special keyboards, keyboard trays, document holders, footrests, and office chairs.
• Educate children, their parents, and school officials about proper posture and movement to prevent injury and strain.
• Teach stretching exercises to children to do at home that support a healthy back.

What can parents and families do?

• Encourage proper posture of the head, forearms, back, and feet: The head should be level with the monitor and the top of the screen at eye level. The forearms should be parallel to the keyboard and held only slightly above it. The lower back should be supported while sitting in front of a computer. Place a small pillow or rolled up towel between the back of the chair and the child's lower back to provide back support. Feet should rest flat on the floor or on a footstep. If a child cannot reach a footstep, stack boxes under it to raise it until the child can rest his or her feet comfortably.
• Arrange computer desk and equipment so as to avoid glare from sunlight. Sit the monitor 18 to 30 inches away from the child.
• Adjust the chair to an appropriate height for the child. Have the child sit on a pillow or book if the chair is not adjustable.

Need more information ?

If you would like to consult an occupational therapist about an ergonomic evaluation, talk to your child's teacher about whether a referral to occupational therapy is appropriate. Your physician, other health professionals, and your school district's director of special education may also be able to help.