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If your posture was formed incorrectly in childhood, this can lead not only to pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, but also to chronic fatigue, back pain, and poor circulation. The greatest load on the spine occurs while sitting. Therefore, it is so important to choose the right chair for a schoolchild so that it is suitable for height and ensures the formation of normal posture. This piece of furniture plays a big role for the child’s health, because many children spend 8-10 hours a day on it, doing homework, drawing or watching cartoons.
Basic requirements
Most often, the question of how to choose a chair for a schoolchild is asked by parents of first-graders. First of all, it must be suitable for the child’s age. It is not recommended to buy an adult chair for a first grader or for growth. There are certain requirements for such furniture, and only if they are met can curvature of the spine and back pain be avoided.
When choosing chairs for schoolchildren, you need to understand that the spine is formed before the age of 16-18. All this time, the bones grow and are easily subject to deformation. That’s why so many children have scoliosis by the time they graduate from school, and recently many teenagers have even been diagnosed with osteochondrosis. To ensure normal development of posture, it is extremely important to choose the right chair for a first-grader.
Modern schoolchildren spend a long time at the table, which leads to increased stress on the spine. As a result, concentration decreases, fatigue and back pain appear. All this can be avoided if you choose the right chair for a child entering first grade. First of all, you need to pay attention to the basic requirements:
- in a sitting position, the feet are completely on the floor or stand, and the knees are bent at a right angle;
- the back is located at the level of the shoulder blades and has a physiological curve to support the lower back;
- the seat is not very deep, allowing you to lean your elbows freely on the back;
- durable and stable construction so that the chair does not become loose or break over time;
- natural and practical materials;
- the ability to adjust the height so that as the child grows, you do not have to purchase a new product.
Orthopedists recommend that schoolchildren choose a regular chair with simple shapes, a classic seat and back. It is not advisable to purchase swivel chairs with wheels for a first grader. The baby may be distracted, sit on the furniture askew, or move far from the table, which will negatively affect his posture.
When choosing a chair for your home, it is advisable to go with your child. Parents need to make sure that he sits comfortably. In addition, the student himself must like this piece of furniture.
Adjustable
Must be appropriate for the child's age
It is not advisable to purchase swivel chairs with wheels for a first grader.
It is recommended to choose a chair with simple shapes
How to choose the right one
The product is necessary to maintain the correct body position when sitting, which allows the spine to form correctly.
The main points that parents should take into account if they want to decide how to choose a table and chair for a first-grader, make the right choice and provide their first-grader with a workplace convenient for studying should be as follows:
- The chair and table must be durable. Design reliability is an important factor. The frame can be aluminum or steel. Such furniture will last longer. If the chair has wheels, they should be inspected. There must be a lock. Or should it be regular stable 4 legs.
- Safety quality. Only those models are selected that are made from materials of good quality and are environmentally friendly. A chair or table covered with paint or varnish can cause allergies in a child. It is necessary to take into account all the characteristics of the child’s body. When purchasing, you should ask the seller to present a quality certificate for the product.
- Level of practicality and functionality. The upholstery material should be inspected. You will have to take care of the chair. It is necessary that the upholstery material allows you to quickly get rid of dirt. It would be nice if the kit included a case. You can buy it separately.
- You can buy a chair with leatherette upholstery as it is easy to clean.
- Convenience. Sitting on a chair should be comfortable for the child. Therefore, the depth of the product’s shape is taken into account.
The shape of the product is comfortable, which allows the child to feel comfortable.
A chair for a first-grader is chosen so as not to harm the baby. Don’t let him ruin his posture, make sure his legs are kept straight at a right angle and don’t slide under the seat.
The special design takes into account the peculiarities of the musculoskeletal system and the structure of the body.
Model classification
Many people do not know which chair to choose, since there is a wide variety of models. They all have their own characteristics, pros and cons. Main models:
- Desk chair. Has a classic shape. It usually has a steel frame on which a wooden seat and back are attached. Sometimes they can be adjusted in height. Furniture of this shape can also be made of plastic. This is the cheapest, but impractical and not very attractive option.
- Computer chairs. Now they have begun to produce them for children. They have the same shape as adult furniture. But they don't always have armrests. In addition, chairs for younger schoolchildren are equipped with stoppers.
- Orthopedic chairs. The products are characterized by an anatomical shape with lumbar support, the presence of a footrest, and the ability to adjust the height and tilt of the backrest. Such models, in turn, are divided into computer and ergonomic. Among all the variety, this is the best choice for children. Their disadvantage is their high cost.
- Transformable chairs for schoolchildren of different ages. A good option that will last for many years. They are sometimes called growing stools. The transformer may have a steel frame on which a wooden or plastic seat is installed at different heights. Another option is similar to a computer chair. Its soft seat is adjusted on the metal frame using a gas spring. Such products are not cheap, so not all parents can purchase them.
There is also a variety of chairs similar to office ones. They have a beam support that provides good stability. The frame can be made of metal or plastic, and the seat and back can be covered with textiles or leather.
Computer chair
Orthopedic chair
Desk chair
Transformable chair
A chair for a schoolchild: how should it be arranged?
According to the latest estimates, a schoolchild spends about seven hours on study and homework. Add playing on the computer, eating and watching TV, and the child spends about nine hours sitting. During these nine hours, the child's spine experiences enormous stress. If the sitting posture is incorrect, this will lead to fatigue, scoliosis and stiff shoulder muscles.
And this is only a small part of the possible consequences.
Only the right chair for a schoolchild will help you avoid them.
How do chairs for schoolchildren differ from ordinary chairs?
- Firstly, the right chair for a schoolchild is orthopedic. It not only prevents back diseases, but also helps treat existing ailments.
If your child has problems with posture or eyes, you should purchase such a chair.
- Secondly, the seat design completely follows the curves of the spine.
This helps relieve stress during exercise and provides quality relaxation when resting.
- Thirdly, the chair for a schoolchild has special height regulators.
As you can see, a classic office chair does not fully meet all the parameters described above, so it is not suitable for a child.
Preference should be given only to special school models.
Types and features of orthopedic chairs
Doctors often recommend that parents purchase an orthopedic chair for their schoolchild. It prevents distortion of posture, and in general it is much more comfortable to sit on than on ordinary furniture. The chair can also be recommended by an orthopedist if the child has any diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Moreover, it is made to order according to individual measurements.
The anatomical chair has a special shape that reduces stress on the muscles and prevents fatigue. The back has curves that allow you to relieve tension from the spine, and the seat has recesses that properly distribute the load and maintain comfort during long-term use. In addition, in such furniture it is possible to adjust the seat height, tilt and backrest position. Often these chairs are available with a footrest. This ensures that the child is correctly seated at the table and helps to form normal posture. Depending on the design, orthopedic furniture has many varieties.
Classic
Such models are more expensive than regular computer chairs, although they are similar in appearance. If parents doubt whether to overpay, they need to study the advantages of such furniture:
- ensure that the child is seated correctly at the table;
- contribute to the formation of normal posture;
- improve blood circulation;
- prevent spinal pathologies and vision impairment;
- provide comfort even when sitting for a long time.
Orthopedic chairs have a special backrest shape. It is usually curved so that it follows the shape of the spine. Also, the backrest can be double, protecting against fatigue and curvature of posture. Some models have holders that fix the child in the correct position (preventing him from moving). It is not advisable to use such chairs for a long time. They are usually recommended for scoliosis or other spinal problems.
Movable (balancing)
This chair is also called a dancing chair. It received this name because the seat has only one support point - in the middle on a hinge. For this reason it is movable. To sit on it, you need to strain different muscles, including the joints and vestibular apparatus.
Using such a chair will help maintain the child’s health and form correct posture. It strengthens the back muscles, improves coordination of movements, helps to relax and learn to move freely. In addition, completing lessons on it promotes perseverance and improves concentration. After all, the child does not need to be distracted or fidget to find a comfortable position. You can sit on a dancing chair for a long time without noticing fatigue. Sitting on it improves mood and is liked by many children.
With support on your knees
This kneeling chair has an unusual shape. It was developed under the guidance of orthopedist Mendel. While observing many children, the scientist noticed that after a while the sitting child tries to slide to the edge of the seat in order to lower his knees. This helps you relax and reduces stress. The doctor found that the most comfortable seat is one that is tilted forward at an angle of 15 degrees. To prevent slipping, the chair has a knee rest, hence its name.
The advantage of this variety is that the load on the spine is reduced due to the fact that the sitter rests on his legs. A kneeling chair promotes correct posture, improves blood circulation in the thighs, and prevents compression of internal organs. Such products may have different designs. Some have a backrest that allows you to sometimes lean back and relax. For schoolchildren who find it difficult to sit still for a long time, rocking chairs are available on an arc-shaped base. The disadvantage of the design is the fact that it is not recommended for some diseases, so it is important to consult a doctor before use. When sitting for the first time, the child may feel discomfort.
With adjustable backrest and armrests
Many orthopedists recommend that schoolchildren purchase chairs that have adjustment functions. This increases sitting comfort and also prevents spinal curvature. After all, adjustment makes it possible to adjust the parameters of the chair to the characteristics of the child. The back will always be in the right place. In addition, adjusting its tilt allows you to support the spine, reduce the load on the back, and improve blood circulation.
Thanks to the correct shape of the back, the student will not get tired and will be able to concentrate on classes. The ability to adjust the armrests allows it to remain operational in any position. Most often, such chairs are bought by teenagers, as they go better with a computer desk. Design disadvantages: they break more often than classic versions, they are more expensive.
What is an orthopedic chair and why is it needed?
A child, being in a sitting position for a long time, for example, while studying homework, puts a lot of strain on his spine. And if an adult can control his position at the table, then the growing body requires outside help.
But you can’t take your own chair to school, so you have to use the furniture provided by educational institutions. Although recently, ergonomic furniture has been increasingly purchased to maintain good health among students.
However, at home you can help your child develop proper posture and buy an at-home orthopedic chair for a schoolchild.
Upholstery selection
If you are choosing a children's orthopedic chair, you need to pay attention to its upholstery. It should be made of hypoallergenic materials that are easy to clean. It is also worth paying attention to the colors. The main thing is that the child likes it and matches the interior of the room. Pink, blue, light options are recommended for girls, blue, gray and even black for boys.
Practicality is the most important parameter of children's furniture. After all, it often gets dirty, so it needs to be able to be cleaned quickly. In addition, the upholstery must be durable to withstand frequent washing. To do this, you need to choose furniture with removable covers that can be easily removed and cleaned.
It is also important to pay attention to the safety of the furniture. The upholstery should be breathable and not cause skin irritation. A good option are textile materials that are breathable and absorb moisture. Leather products are undesirable, especially in summer, as they can cause excessive sweating.
Hypoallergenic
Practicality
Criterias of choice
Among the huge assortment of chairs in furniture stores and the Internet, you want to choose the perfect one. To do this, we pay attention to the important details and characteristics of the models.
Back
When the child is in a sitting position, back support is necessary. To do this, choose an option with an anatomical back that reaches the middle of the shoulder blades or higher. It will help keep your body in the correct position.
Seat
It should be smooth, with a slightly rounded edge in the popliteal area. It also requires adjustment in height and depth for proper fit. The older the child, the lower the seat goes.
Armrests
Models of chairs for studying by schoolchildren should not have armrests. Leaning on them, the back muscles will relax. This will lead to curvature of the spine. But for kids, armrests are even necessary; they will serve as a side limiter and prevent them from falling.
In models for students, protrusions are allowed on the side parts of the chair, which look like armrests, on which it is impossible or inconvenient to fold your arms. Such models provide discipline, because you can sit on them strictly between the armrests and your back will always be in contact with the backrest.
Wheels
Not the best option. Spinning around in a chair on wheels, children cannot concentrate on their studies.
Height
The height-adjustable seat will help you adjust the seat to any height of the student. The main thing is that when adjusting, the “three corners” rule is observed. If you want to seat your child immediately at the “adult” table, then the adjustment should start at approximately 580 mm from the floor. For an adult, the comfortable seat height is 450 mm.
Safety
In all children's furniture, this criterion is the most important. Pay attention to the stability of the structure. Children love to bounce on the chair and may tip over. A large base and sufficient weight of furniture will help to avoid injuries.
Safety in every detail. Choose a model without sharp corners and with reliable fittings.
Let's not forget about materials. The best option for children would be a wooden model. It is durable, easy to care for, pleasant to the touch, and retains its orthopedic properties over the years.
How to determine the correct body position on a chair
All furniture for schoolchildren should be comfortable. It is important that when doing lessons the spine does not experience heavy load. This can only be achieved if the correct position of the student in the chair is ensured. To check whether the chosen furniture suits him, you need to know what points to pay attention to.
There are several criteria, the observance of which ensures the formation of normal posture and prevents fatigue:
- feet stand completely on the floor or on a special stand;
- the knees are bent at a right angle, the seat does not rest against the popliteal fold;
- the hip line and back should also create a right angle;
- the back is straight, the lower back is slightly curved forward;
- hands lie freely on the table, elbows bent at right angles;
- a fist should pass between the table top and the chest;
- The seat of the chair is firm but comfortable.
The back of the chair should end no lower than the middle of the shoulder blades; it is better if it has a bend that does not allow the child to hunch over.
Saddle chair for schoolchildren
A saddle chair is one of the types of orthopedic chairs for schoolchildren. The position on it is intermediate between standing and sitting, thanks to which the spine is in an optimal position and prevents slouching. Among the useful properties of such structures are:
- Correction of posture and prevention of scoliosis development.
- Reducing the load on the lower back and intervertebral discs.
- A straight back will help you breathe deeply and enrich the body with oxygen.
- Excellent blood supply to all organs.
- Good digestion, since the even position does not pinch the stomach.
Are armrests needed?
According to orthopedists, the correct chair for a first-grader does not have armrests, since when writing, the hands should lie flat on the tabletop. Contrary to this, many parents buy an office chair for their child, believing that it will be more convenient for him to do his homework. But in reality, it turns out that children lean on one armrest or another, which causes the spine to bend.
For teenagers who work a lot at the computer, you can purchase such a chair with armrests, especially if the student has a special table. After all, the keyboard stand prevents them from placing their hands on the tabletop. For this reason, they may become numb and tired. Armrests are also useful if the child's chair is used for reading or watching movies. They are needed to prevent your elbows from being suspended.
The armrests must be adjustable so that the arms are bent at a right angle. You also need to make sure that they do not rest against the table. The length of the products should be about 25 cm and the width – 5-7 cm. It is advisable that they be removable.
Children's study chairs
When buying computer chairs for children, it is worth remembering that these products must meet certain parameters, based on the requirements for the safety of the child to preserve his health. Main selection criteria:
- Form. For young children, products should have rounded edges. This will ensure safety and prevent pinching of the vessels on the legs, which can impair blood circulation. Schoolchildren should preferably purchase ergonomic models that follow the contours of a healthy spine.
- Back. It is good if the back has special thickenings that ensure the support of the back in an upright position.
- Height. Determined according to the child's height. For every 10 cm of height there is 3 cm of chair height. According to international standards, a child seat should have a height of no more than 55 cm. If the child does not reach the floor, it is necessary to purchase a footrest, the width of which should be no less than the length of the foot.
- Orthopedic suitability. It is preferable to choose chairs with a high back, located at right angles to the seat. In this case, the child’s back should be in contact with the back of the chair, and the kneecaps should not touch the edge of the seat.
- Ergonomics. The design mechanism must be thought out to the smallest detail in order to minimize the load on the child’s fragile spine.
- Safety. To make the back and seat, high-quality products use durable plastic or wood. The base must be weighted, and the load-bearing elements must be made of metal, which will provide protection against tipping over. For small children, you need to choose models with 4 legs, as they are more stable.
Tips for choosing based on the child's age
To determine how to choose the right chair for a schoolchild, you need to take into account his age and height. For example, it is not advisable for a first-grader to purchase a computer office chair, even if it is height adjustable. But you can’t put a teenager in a transformable highchair. In addition, orthopedists under 14 years of age do not recommend buying models with wheels, with a rotating mechanism and with armrests. These elements are suitable for computer chairs, which it is advisable to use from adolescence.
It is very important that the height of the chair matches the height of the child. Typically, first-graders are 110-120 cm tall. They need chairs 30-32 cm high, but it is better to check these parameters by sitting the child on the furniture and looking at his legs. Your feet should be on the floor and your knees should be at right angles. If it turns out to be sharp, you need to choose a higher chair. The problem is that the child will grow quickly, and before graduating from school he will have to change the furniture at least 4 times. For this reason, a height-adjustable chair is a good option.
Pros and cons of height-adjustable student orthopedic chairs
To avoid purchasing new furniture every year as your child grows and grows, you can buy one ergonomic chair for a schoolchild. It is easy to adjust to the student's height. In addition, such a universal model has a number of advantages, including:
- Prevention of spinal diseases and vision problems.
- Normalization of blood circulation in the back.
- Adjustment of the position of the legs and back.
- Creating a compact workplace that does not take up much space in the room.
- Easy setup and height change.
If the student’s feet do not reach the floor, the chair should have an auxiliary stand and pillow PHOTO: cosmedicus.ru
Orthopedic chairs are indicated mainly for diseases of the musculoskeletal system recorded by a doctor. And in their absence, such furniture will prevent their occurrence.
Such a device is not without its drawbacks. These include high cost, as well as the inability to lean on. Unfortunately, most models are designed in such a way that they easily tip over due to the light weight of the frame.
Most orthopedic child seats have a parent handle PHOTO: kindermag24.ru
Reliable manufacturers
To choose the best chair, you need to study the rating of such furniture. You can find models on sale at different prices. It is important to pay attention that such products are certified, made of high-quality materials, and meet all the requirements of orthopedists. It is recommended to pay attention to the best manufacturers of children's chairs:
- Moll is a German company that produces quality products. Such chairs allow the child to sit comfortably and protect against postural distortion. They are practical, safe, made of hypoallergenic materials.
- Kettler - a feature of the manufacturer’s furniture is that it is reliable, stable and can withstand a lot of weight. The chairs have orthopedic properties, have an ergonomic shape, adjustment functions, and removable covers.
- Paidi is a company that produces the best growing furniture for children from Germany. It is popular all over the world as it adapts to the characteristics of any child.
- Mealux is a company known for soft chairs with adjustable seat height. The back follows the curves of the spine. The products are durable, practical, comfortable.
Choosing a chair for a child is difficult, but it is very important to do it correctly. This will help maintain his health, improve his academic performance and form an even posture. It is important that the furniture is conducive to doing homework, but at the same time creates an atmosphere of comfort and warmth.
Kettler
Mealux
Moll
Paidi
Modern solutions
It is no secret that nowadays science and technological developments are developing quite rapidly. And today, the regulating chair for schoolchildren has been replaced by a dancing one.
Its design is completely different from other chairs. This is a seat that has a hinged leg in the center and no backrest at all. You won’t be able to sit quietly on such a chair; you constantly have to keep your balance on it.
But, according to the inventors, it is this kind of chair that helps maintain excellent posture. When balance is maintained, almost all the muscles of the body contract, so they help keep the spine in constant tone. And as they say, this has a great effect on the child’s health.
The choice of furniture for school-age children can be very diverse. It all depends on the parents and of course the child himself. The best models can be found in the catalog under the category chair for schoolchildren from IKEA.