Computers are an integral tool in today's education environment. At Greenhithe Kindergarten, they are used as another tool for documenting, creating and researching.
The teachers at Greenhithe Kindergarten wanted to encourage the children to use correct posture and reduce the risk of them developing aches, pains and repetitive strain injury (RSI). Restricting use, for example using timers, was not considered to be an option as it potentially sent the wrong message to children about valued contexts for learning; it told them that it was fine to be creative, playful and collaborative in the sand area for as long as their interest lasted but not at the computer.
The teachers found that they were spending an increasing amount of time working on computers themselves, in particular laptops. After experiencing physical symptoms of RSI, the teachers realised that ergonomic considerations were not just important the children's health and safety, but also for the adults.
Health issues associated with computer use
When aches and pains occur it is often through a combination of contributing factors:
- Postural discomfort
- Mental/muscle tension
- Prolonged time frames in static position.
Most of the research published about correct posture for computer use focuses on adults in work contexts. However, the International Ergonomics Association has produced a set of well-illustrated guidelines for children's computer use.
Action taken at Greenhithe Kindergarten
For children's benefit
Margaret, the head teacher, first became interested in healthy computer environments some years ago and researched the guidelines available at the time. In a quest to source suitable furniture, she then approached a manufacturer of children's furniture and worked on a design for a children's computer desk. Since then a number of other companies have designed computer desks for children.
The kindergarten has flat-screen monitors. Teachers ensure that these are tilted so that children are not having to strain their necks to look at the screen.
After using an exercise ball rather than a computer chair themselves, the teachers were so impressed with how this improved their posture as a result that they decided to investigate the feasibility of also using these with the children. They found a supplier in Auckland (Kid's Locker) who imported children's sized exercise balls (33-45cms). There are two exercise balls for each computer, acknowledging that children often work collaboratively in this context.
Thinking that the balls would roll or be carried away from the computer, the teachers trialled using some rings for the balls to sit in. However, they found these didn't work so now the children have learned to tuck the balls away under the table when they have finished using them.
When we introduced the exercise balls, we removed the chairs from the technology area altogether and made it clear what the balls were to be used for. Within days, they had become the children’s preferred form of seating, and not only at the computers. Children will often take them to other activity areas to use at their tables, as well.
Margaret May, teacher
For the benefit of adults
Knowing that laptops are not designed for long term use from a desk position without some modification to its set up, the teachers purchased laptop stands, an external keyboard and wireless mouse for when they work on the laptops in the office. The have instigated the option of an adjustable office chair or an exercise ball for adults to sit on.