An improperly selected desk, slouching, and many hours sitting at the computer can affect not only academic performance but also a child's health. Belarusian doctors explained how to organize a schoolchild's home workspace to reduce the strain on the spine and eyes.

The desk and chair should "grow" with the child

The main rule when choosing furniture is that it matches the student's height. The child should sit so that their feet are fully on the floor, and the angles at the knees, hip joints, and elbows are approximately 90 degrees.

"It is important that the elbows are above the level of the desk and the feet are fully on the floor. If the student's height does not yet allow them to put their feet on the floor, a special footrest can be used," said traumatologist-orthopedist Artem Simonenko.

The specialist advises choosing adjustable desks and chairs. This will allow the height of the furniture to be changed as the child grows and avoid unnecessary strain on the lower back, neck, and shoulders.

The chair should have a backrest that supports the lumbar and thoracic regions. At the same time, a seat that is too soft is not suitable: the child should not sink into it and lose proper body position.

"The lower back and buttocks should be in tone," noted Artem Simonenko.

Pediatric traumatologist-orthopedist Yulian Putik explains in detail how to seat a child at the desk

"It is essential that the chair has a backrest: we sit as close to it as possible, and the chair is closer to the desk. It is important that the legs do not dangle, that they reach the floor or that there is a special platform under them. The legs should be at a right angle," the doctor notes.

The doctor advises not to overload the work surface. If there is enough room on the desk for both arms and elbows, it is easier for the child to maintain correct posture and not twist while writing.

The specialist also warns against using posture correctors on one's own. According to him, without a doctor's prescription, such devices can weaken muscles. A corrector is most often needed for injuries or for specific medical indications.

Breaks are needed every hour

Even a properly organized workspace does not eliminate the need to move. According to the orthopedist, after 45 minutes of studying, the child needs a 10-15 minute break: stand up, walk around, do a few simple exercises.

Staying in one position for a long time increases the strain on the spine and can contribute to the development of postural disorders. Doctors note that the first signs of problems sometimes appear as early as 5-7 years of age, and adolescence becomes a particularly vulnerable period.

Even if a child has taken a break from studying, you should not immediately hand them a phone. Victoria Krasilnikova, the chief freelance pediatric ophthalmologist of the Ministry of Health, notes that proper rest for the eyes involves a change of activity.

"A break means switching from visual strain to a different activity. Physical activity is a good way to prevent the development of myopia," the specialist noted.

And when setting up a desk, it is important to consider not only the height of the furniture, but also the position of the legs, back, and arms. Pediatric traumatologist-orthopedist Yulian Putik advises placing a platform under the child's feet if they do not reach the floor, and not cluttering the desk with unnecessary items.

This way, the workspace will help the student maintain proper posture, and regular breaks, walks, and checkups with an ophthalmologist will reduce strain on the eyes.

Computer time – by the clock

Work at the computer also needs to be limited. The Minsk City Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology notes that for school-age children, continuous visual strain should alternate with rest, and screen time