This article was
written by ErgoRisk

Kids Ergo - Equipment and Set up Tips

Pint-sized Ergonomics

Let’s keep this simple: Adult furniture does not fit kids. Poorly set-up work and play environments can lead to MSI or discomfort in adults or children. On the whole, adults and children continue to spend more and more time in front of computers and video game stations. We want and need to ensure that our kids play safe.

Here are some simple tips to help:

• When setting up your child’s computer, buy children’s furniture OR furniture that has adjustable legs (example – IKEA table top and adjustable legs) . Click HERE for more info.
• Make sure the keyboard and mouse are on the same surface and at your child’s elbow height.
• Consider purchasing keyboards or trackballs that are kid-sized.
• Purchase a height adjustable monitor and lower the monitor as much as possible.
• Provide a chair that can adjust in height so that it will continue to fit them as they grow.

What can you do in the short term?

• Provide flat cushions for your kids to sit on so that their elbows are at the same height as the table.
• Put pillows behind your kids back to push them forward and to support their back.
• Provide your kids with a footrest (e.g. phone books, a box) so that they can sit with their back and feet supported.

This article was
written by ErgoRisk

Kids and Backpacks

A pain in the backpack.

As your kids prepare for their march back to school, take a second to consider the following:

One recent study identified that over half of children carried loads heavier than recommended (>15% of body weight; American Physical Therapy Association). The same study found that 1/3 of these children reported significant back pain requiring treatment or time away from activities or school.

If you see any of the following, your child’s backpack may be too heavy:

• Their posture changes when wearing the backpack
• They struggle when putting on or taking off the backpack
• They report pain, tingling or numbness when wearing the backpack
• The pack is more than 15% of their body weight (recommended maximum)

Before they head out the door, do the following five-point check:

1. Are they wearing both straps?
2. Does the backpack rest over the middle of the back? (not slouching below their hips)
3. Can the child put on and take off the backpack without difficulty?
4. Is there anything in the bag they don’t need to be carrying?
5. Are the heaviest items toward the bottom of the pack and closest to their low back?