Children & Ergonomics

Children seem pretty resilient.   I am not a teacher or a parent; therefore, it never occurred to me that a child could develop health issues like carpal tunnel, back problems, and computer vision syndrome, especially due to the use of electronics.   Computer Vision Syndrome is a condition that I didn’t even know existed.  On the webpage entitled Children and Computer Vision Syndrome, Larry Wan explains the effects of how the tremendous growth of computer usage has contributed to issues with sight.  At a rate of 94%, nearly every American family has access to the internet at home.   On the webpage he states, “In 2009, 29 percent of American children ages 8 to 18 had their own laptop computer, and kids in grades 7 through 12 reported spending an average of more than 90 minutes a day sending or receiving texts on their cell phones.”  He also explains that, “Computer use demands fine motor skills from young eyes that are not well developed. Only when the visual system matures is a child better able to handle the stress of a computer on that system.”  This would explain the increase in sight problems amongst children, teenagers, and young adults.  According to the website, the National Eye Institute conducted a study which found that over the past 30 years nearsightedness has increased more than 66% among Americans. 

As a teacher, there would be many ergonomic considerations to think about when it comes to children and students in general.  Most schools supply size appropriate chairs and desks; however, I have never seen a classroom with size appropriate keyboards and mice.  Before conducting this research, I was familiar with ergonomic keyboards and the “hand shake” designed mouse.  However, I was unaware that there were different sized keyboards and mice available to better suit children.  The keyboards for children are really neat because they have smaller keys and shorter distances between the keys, which reduce the strain on little fingers and shoulders.   Some of the keyboards have color coded keys which is a wonderful tool to use with children who are just learning how to spell. 

Using adjustable keyboard trays, document holders, and anti glare screens, while making sure that the monitor is sitting eye level with the child are all simple inexpensive, yet highly effective ergonomic tools that should be considered in the classroom.  Teachers should also that they are providing adequate break times.  Combining all of these ergonomic tools and precautions has the power to prevent potential health problems.  Taking preventative measures is much easier than dealing with health problems after they occur.  

There are probably a lot of parents who are unaware of the computer related health concerns.  Teachers should take the opportunity to educate parents of the potential problems and the simple adjustments that parents can make to their personal workstations.  Most children use the same computer area as their parents and simple things like adding a footrest, a lower back pillow and a phonebook or a booster seat can make a huge difference in making computer usage safer in the home.  Teachers can send a quick handout home to parents or discuss simple tips during an open house.