Computer Ergonomics and Children

 

Visit any computer supply store and you will notice the wide variety of keyboards, mice and joysticks. The big emphasis the last few years has been on ergonomics. While adults can often find a keyboard, monitor stand, and computer desk which relieves strain, it is often difficult to asses a young child's need.

Children and teens are increasingly at risk for RSI (repetitive strain injury.) These injuries can include neck, wrist and arm pain, as well as back pain. The symptoms can be minor, or they can lead to serious injury involving surgeries and long rehabilitation periods. There is some question as to the safety of computer monitors on developing eyes. Monitor radiation fields have been blamed for any number of ills. A well substantiated claim, however, is the stress computer use may put on developing eye muscles.

Do your kids play computer games for long periods of time each day? Watch how they are sitting. Is their neck straining to look comfortably at the monitor? Is the chair high enough so that wrists are even with the keyboard, and not bending awkwardly? One thing most people forget to watch for is foot positioning. Most adults can comfortably reach the floor when sitting at the computer. A child should be able to sit up straight at the computer, with legs and thighs parallel to the floor. If it is not possible for them to place their feet on the floor, it might be wise to place a box or stool under your computer table. Have your child take frequent breaks from the computer to rest eyes and arm muscles.

Computer keyboards, have changed shape in the last few years. You will still find the regular looking keyboard at your local store, but you will also find keyboards that come in two pieces, are twisted in various shapes, or even look something like an accordion! Which is best? Unfortunately each manufacturer will tell you something different. I can tell a tremendous difference in wrist strain when I move from a traditional keyboard back to my favorite Microsoft Natural Keyboard. I also like my mouse which is curved to fit in my hand, or the Cirque Power Cat. These devices were not designed for children, however, and few are. The Microsoft Easy Ball is a great pointing device for the youngest folks in the family, or those with disabilities. But what about kids keyboards?

Here you will find the widest discrepancy in opinion. Some keyboards for kids have larger keys, making them easier to see and isolate. Some concentrate on bright colors, and phonetic representations such as the KidBoard. One of the most innovative designs shown at NECC this spring was the Little Fingers Keyboard. Two size keyboards will soon be available. A mid-size board is just the right size for kids seven to pre-teen. A small size will be available in Spring of 99 which is just right for kids ages 3-8. The keyboard has a traditional layout, including a wrist rest, but is much smaller. The keyboards are scaled to fit each age group. This approach made the most sense to me. It is important for kids (and adults) to become touch typists. This eliminates strain on the body. How can small bodies learn to touch type if the keys are enormous? Little Fingers is manufactured by Datadesk Technologies at www.datadesktech.com

Adding ergonomic information to typing tutorial programs is the latest rage. Even Disney's Adventures in Typing with Timon and Pumbaa contains suggestions to "sit up straight and place your feet on the floor." Mavis Beacon 9.0 contains probably the most extensive ergonomics section, including video clips. They are, however, geared toward adults in the workplace. It will be up to you as a parent to monitor, become educated, and inform your children of the risks. Teens especially need to understand the risks as they spend the most time on intense games. Purchase a quality designed joystick for these kids. This is not a place to skimp if you are concerned about repetitive strain injuries. It may takes scare tactics to dissuade your game addicted teens, but the scare may be justified.

Watch for new hardware designs to continue popping up. In the meantime, spend a few minutes watching your youngsters using the computer and keyboard. How natural is their body position, and is there anything you can do to help the situation? A few minutes spent now may save hundreds of hours of pain and disability, not to mention the medical costs down the road.