Kids are on the computer all of the time these days both at home and at school. While computers are useful and very essential for kids to stay current with school and the world around them, there are some things that parents need to be careful of in order to avoid health issues.
Proper Body Mechanics
Sitting for long periods of time in front of a computer at a weird angle or using the keyboard inappropriately can lead to issues down the road. Be sure your kids are sitting squarely in a chair with their arms resting at a 90-degree angle while they type. Help them avoid slouching or leaning. It’s also a good idea to stand up and stretch every so often.
Reduce Eye Strain
There are some experts who believe that too much time spent looking at a computer monitor can lead to long-term vision problems. Some reports show that reading from a computer screen can be more damaging than reading from a book or paper. A good suggestion is to take a break every 15-20 minutes and look at something that is at least 20 feet away for 10 seconds or so. This can actually relax muscles inside the eye and help kids avoid eye fatigue.
Moderation in All Things
One of the most common concerns that parents, teachers and doctors share is that children are spending too much time sitting in front of a computer and not getting the exercise and social interaction they need. Be mindful of how much time your child spends at the computer. Encourage them to get outside and play every day so they get the exercise they need.
Wash Hands When Sharing Computers
This is especially important at school when kids share computers in a library or computer lab. Teach your children the habit of washing their hands frequently, including after they have been touching a computer mouse and keyboard. Hopefully, this practice will help them avoid germs that can lead to illness.
If you have any other questions about healthy computer practices for kids, be sure to ask one of the experts at All Kids Urgent Care. Feel free to give us a call or stop by for a visit.