Pediatric Ergonomics

What is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics involves the proper alignment and positioning of the body during daily activities. It emphasizes how children engage with their environment, especially during schoolwork and study time, to ensure comfort and prevent strain. Whether during schoolwork, playtime, or daily activities, good ergonomic design supports children in participating more effectively and enjoying what they do without getting hurt. With the increasing use of computers, tablets, and other technology, it’s important to ensure that children are comfortable in their environment and set themselves up for success by keeping eye strain and other musculoskeletal issues in mind (Edwards, 2024; Pentony, 2021). 

Why is Ergonomics Important?

Children’s bodies are still developing, which means they are more susceptible to physical discomfort and long-term injuries if they are not supported while engaging in daily activities. Poor ergonomics, such as slouching, craning neck, or sitting in an awkward position for long periods, can lead to various issues, including (Pentony, 2024): 

• Musculoskeletal Problems: Poor posture can lead to back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as problems with the joints and spine. 

• Fatigue and Discomfort: poor posture or prolonged sitting during school, can lead to eye strain, headaches, or muscle tension, making it harder for them to focus during class or completing homework. 

• Developmental Concerns: children who use various pieces of furniture that don’t fit them may develop bad posture habits that may follow them into adulthood. 

Encouraging proper ergonomics for your child will support positive body development and support better concentration and more efficient learning. This will allow your children to focus on their schoolwork and other daily tasks without physical or mental distress (Hendricks, n.d.). 

Key Principles of Pediatric Ergonomics

When it comes to creating an ergonomic environment for children, especially in the classroom, there are a few things that should be kept in mind (Progressive Pediatric Therapy, 2020; Larson, 2021; Ockner, 2011): 

(Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 2022). 

• Proper Seating and Desk Height: the desks and chairs that children use throughout schooling should be adjusted to support each individual. The chair and desk should allow your child to sit with their feet flat on the ground, knees bent at 90 degrees, and thighs parallel to the floor. The desk height should be adjusted to support your child sitting with their elbows bent at a 90-degree angle when typing or writing, with their forearms parallel to the floor. Your child’s back should rest against the back of the chair with their waist at a 90-degree angle while supporting their lower back for them to sit up straight. 

• At school, this may be hard to achieve as desks and chairs may not be adjustable and every child receives the same furniture. If possible, you could introduce a step stool below their feet to support their knees bending at a 90-degree angle. Also, providing a cushion behind them could support their lower back during class. Below are examples of how SENSE-ational Spaces provided adjustable chairs that match the level of the desk to promote positive ergonomics for these individuals. 

• Monitor Placement: if your child uses a computer or laptop to complete schoolwork, encourage them to place the screen at eye level, about arm’s length away, to prevent eye strain and neck pain. This also encourages your child to keep their head upright rather than leaning forward or down to see the screen.

• Lighting: ensure that your child’s space is well-lit, but avoid harsh overhead lighting or bright screens that can cause glare. This will help to reduce eye strain and improve focus when completing school work. 

• At home, encourage your child to take a short break from looking at their homework, especially if it is online,  every 20-30 minutes. This will help relax their eye muscles and reduce the risk of eye strain. 

• Encourage Movement Breaks: sitting for long periods is never good for anyone, especially growing children. Encourage your child to get up and move around every 20-30 minutes to prevent stiffness, improve circulation, and help them stay focused on their schoolwork. 

• Proper Fitting For Backpacks: A common form of neck and back strain is from a backpack that doesn’t fit properly. When picking a backpack for your child, make sure two straps are both worn every time to distribute weight evenly. The straps should rest against their backs, and the bottom of the backpack should not go below their waist. 

Pediatric ergonomics isn’t just about providing the right furniture or accessories, it’s about creating a thoughtful, healthy learning environment that supports your child’s physical development and well-being. By paying attention to factors like seating, screen use, posture, and movement, you can help your child avoid discomfort and potential injuries while fostering a more productive and enjoyable learning experience.

References

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. (2022). Working in a sitting position. [Image]. CCOHS. https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/sitting/sitting_position.html

Edwards, C., Fortingo, N. & Franklin, E. (2024). Ergonomics. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK580551/#:~:text=Ergonomics%20is%20the%20study%20of,)%2C%20fatigue%2C%20and%20overexertion.

Hendricks, A. (n.d.). Importance of children’s ergonomics. Ergotherapy. https://ergotherapy.co.za/blogs/ergonomics/ergonomics-children#:~:text=Children%27s%20ergonomics%20is%20the%20practice,injury%2Dfree%2C%20comfortable%20spaces.

Ockner, S. (2011). The ergonomics of a child’s workspace. Kidz Occupational Therapy. https://www.kidzoccupationaltherapy.com/2011/09/16/the-ergonomics-of-a-childs-work-space/

Larson, K. (2021). What every K-12 professional should know about ergonomics for kids. Ideas + Inspiration from Demco. https://ideas.demco.com/blog/what-every-k12-professional-should-know-about-kids-ergonomics/

Pentony, N. (2024). The importance of healthy ergonomic practices in children. Boyne Ergonomics. https://boyneergonomics.ie/encouraging-healthy-ergonomic-practices-in-children/#:~:text=Firstly%2C%20good%20ergonomic%20practices%20and,bad%2C%20we%20need%20to%20rest.

Progressive Pediatric Therapy. (2020). Ergonomics, flexible seating, & eye health during virtual learning. Progressive Pediatric Therapy. https://ppt4kids.com/ergonomics-flexible-seating-eye-health-during-virtual-learning/#:~:text=How%20Should%20my%20child%20be,to%20improve%20attention%20and%20learning.