Ergonomics

At Home Learning Station

With an increase in virtual learning, there is a greater demand to set up an effective home learning station! Here are a few things to keep in mind when creating the perfect study space for your kids.⁣

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Although it is tempting to watch that last school module on the couch, please encourage good habits by asking your kids to do their work at an ergonomically sound workstation: ⁣

  • Have your child sit on a chair where they can maintain good posture. Their knees should be bent approximately 90 degrees and their feet should be flat on the floor. For younger learners, this may require a stool or box to rest their feet on⁣.

  • When working with a computer, keep the screen at eye level. This may require using as stand to raise the computer monitor⁣.

  • Adjust screen brightness, ideally to keep it around the same brightness as the work environment. ⁣

It is also important to keep in mind that more online learning means more screen time. We encourage you to be mindful of eye strain by encouraging breaks and reducing playtime involving screens. Consistent blinking and changing eye focus by looking around the room periodically can help relax the eyes and keep them moist. The 20/20/20 rule is a great way to help with this (have your child look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes!⁣).

Questions about your home learning station? Please let us know in the comment section!

The Perfect Backpack

As a new school year quickly approaches, whether you choose online or in-person learning, a new backpack can help get your little learner excited to start the new year!⁣

When choosing a schoolbag with your child this year, consider backpack ergonomics.

Ergonomics is a fancy word that describes interactions between people and the equipment in their work environment in order to promote worker safety and efficiency, while minimizing injury. Ergonomic backpacks can translate into less back pain and better posture.

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We came up with “DW’S Tips” to help you choose an ergonomically sound backpack this year!⁣
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D-Design

Look for ergonomic features! 2 wide, padded shoulder straps, waist and chest straps, and back padding can increase comfort and promote good posture. Compartments can also help redistribute weight more evenly.⁣

W-Weight

No more than 10-15% of the child’s body weight, and definitely no more than 25lbs! With online work becoming more common, lugging around extra textbooks can be avoided. It is important to note that when packing heavy items, they should be placed against the back and towards the bottom of the backpack.⁣

S-Size

Choose a backpack that fits your child’s essential items but avoids excess space, as this tends to lead to overpacking. It should not be wider than the torso or hang far below the waist!