Choosing a computer chair for a student

A computer is an indispensable part of the room of any modern schoolchild - with the help of it a child can do his homework or just play games. Since teenagers spend a lot of time sitting at the computer, the question arose about the development of special chairs or armchairs that will provide maximum comfort and keep the posture of children in the correct position. Let's take a closer look at the features and subtleties of choosing computer chairs for schoolchildren.

Every responsible parent is attentive to the health of their child. So, while doing homework, children sit in their usual posture, which often affects the condition of the back and spine. Most adults try to approach the problem from a moral point of view through strict requirements and prohibitions, but this can only exacerbate the situation. To combat this problem, special computer chairs for schoolchildren have recently been designed.

Such models differ from the classic versions of computer chairs for adults in their lightweight design. And they also have a number of additional elements that do not impede the formation of the child's musculoskeletal system. Such furniture has a whole host of positive functions:

• relieving stress and pressure from the spine;
• prevention of circulatory disorders;
• ensuring complete comfort while doing homework;
• maintaining the back and spine in an anatomically correct position;
• prevention of eye diseases;
• maintaining the head and elbows;
• saving free space;
• complementing the interior of the room due to interesting design and colors.

All possible disadvantages of children's computer chairs are associated exclusively with certain low-quality furniture models purchased from unverified manufacturers.

Models of children's computer chairs can be divided into several classifications depending on the shape and performance, types of backrests, seats, as well as the type of upholstery and base material.

This classification includes traditional models for children, as well as more modern and special options, equipped with some additional designs.

• Classic armchairs. Such models are distinguished by a rigid design, the main emphasis in which is placed precisely on the back, which fixes the back in the correct position, preventing possible curvature of the spine.

• Orthopedic models. These chairs are designed to relieve stress on the spine and reduce stress on the back muscles. Unlike classic armchairs, the backrest in this design can be adjusted in height and slightly change its position, which does not allow the spine to sag.

• Models with a footrest. In this case, the entire load is transferred to the lower legs, which reduces the load on the spine.

• Dynamic options. These chairs do not have a back and armrests, but there is a movable seat mounted on hinges. On such a chair, the student needs to constantly maintain an even back position.

• With a knee seat. In these models of chairs, a special soft knee support is provided.Thanks to this design, students can intuitively lean their knees on the stand, while keeping their backs straight. Unfortunately, with prolonged use of such chairs, the child's legs can become numb, which brings discomfort.

• Chairs of the "standing-sitting" type. In this case, the child's legs remain as straight as possible, and the pelvis is comfortably located on the seat.

The main function of the backrest is to support the spine and back. Seats with a high-quality backrest not only provide a comfortable rest, but can also correct the child's existing posture disorders. Depending on the type of backrest, all computer chairs for schoolchildren can be divided into 3 groups:

• single - perform the function of fixing the body and form the correct posture;
• with a double back - ideal for relaxing the back muscles (not recommended for children with pre-existing spinal problems);
• with a roller - provide additional support for the back muscles.

In any case, the back of the school chair must be at least as high as the shoulder blades of the child. It is also worth considering that today there are options for computer chairs without a back, but they are not intended for children.

Perhaps the seat is the main element of any chair. In computer children's models, it should not be too soft. Regarding its height, everything very much depends on the height of the child himself - usually the indicators vary from 44 to 48 cm.

Depending on the type of seat, there are anatomical and standard chairs. Anatomical models are created in such a way as to completely follow the body relief due to thickenings in certain places.

In the case of computer chairs, attention is paid not only to the upholstery material, but also to the filler, as well as the material from which the base is made. The material of the chair affects its appearance, as well as its strength and durability indicators. Regardless of what material the chair is made of, it must be hypoallergenic, breathable and not picky to care for.

Usually, only 3 materials are used as upholstery for such furniture: genuine leather, eco-leather and textiles.

• Eco leather. This includes fabric upholstery options made from materials that mimic the properties of natural leather. They have excellent strength indicators, can be created in any color, do not require special care and optimally adapt to the child's body temperature.
• Leather. The use of this material in the creation of furniture for children is considered impractical - in such conditions, it will quickly lose its appearance. When choosing leather upholstery, pay attention to the thickness of the filler - if the thickness is too small, such a chair will be very hard, if too large, the child will drown in it corny.
• Textile. This group can include both synthetic and natural fabrics. The textiles are very durable, breathable and easy to clean.

The filler is an equally important point that will be responsible for the convenience and comfort in using the chair. Usually, foam rubber and polyurethane foam are used in the filling of school furniture chairs. Foam rubber is notable for its good strength and low price, but it quickly deforms under load and needs to be replaced soon. Polyurethane foam is more expensive than foam rubber, but also more durable, wear-resistant.

As a base in such chairs, a special five-beam or cross is installed. It is usually made from aluminum, plastic, steel, or wood. It is steel and aluminum structures that are considered the most durable, but here a lot depends on the diameter of the cross, which should be at least 50 cm. Wooden bases are usually treated with moisture-proof and hypoallergenic varnishes.

Some experts also agree on all child computer chairs regarding the material of the casters or casters. The latter can be closed, open or with a retainer and are made of polypropylene or polyamide.

While adults and office computer chairs are usually distinguished by neutral monochrome shades such as black, white or gray, then children's models are painted in almost any bright shades - from red to purple. Recently, armchairs with cartoon prints or with check patterns have become especially popular.

In general, many parents prefer the same monochrome colors, since they are not picky about care and look good in any interior.

Among the manufacturers of high-quality and durable orthopedic chairs for schoolchildren, such brands as Duorest, Kulik System, Gravitonus, and Metta stand out.

If we talk about the rating of the highest quality models, then there are only 3 models of computer child seats.

• Duorest DR-7900 - a clear leader in terms of orthopedic properties and comfort for children. It features a double backrest, reliable armrests, a headrest, adjustable backrest and seat height, six full castors, and a swing mechanism. The chairs can be made in various colors and are capable of withstanding heavy loads, up to 120 kg. This model perfectly fixes the position of the back and completely relieves the load on the spine and back muscles.

• Kulik System Fly. An expensive but high quality armchair suitable for teens from 8 to 14 years old. Made exclusively from natural materials, it has 5 castors, a metal crosspiece and is capable of carrying up to 80 kg. In addition, the model has adjustable armrests, headrest and lumbar support. In addition to excellent performance, the chair is made in a stylish and modern design, and therefore will perfectly complement any interior.

• Gravitonus UP! Footrest. This modern model is considered by many to be revolutionary, as it is suitable for both children who have just started going to school and already for adults. The effect is achieved thanks to the adjustable double back and chair, as well as an adjustable and removable footrest. Good eco-leather is used as upholstery in this model, there are no wheels, but there are high-quality and stable roller legs. Many parents note that they themselves often use this model, since it is capable of withstanding loads up to 90 kg.

There are several important factors to consider when choosing the perfect computer chair for your student. Each of them determines whether your child will have a straight, healthy back.

A high-quality computer chair for children should have:

• reliable, stable and durable construction;
• a backrest adjustable in height, which should fix the spine, especially in the lumbar region, and also exactly repeat its outlines;
• a rigid orthopedic seat high enough for the child's feet to touch the floor;
• a synchromechanism that will adapt to the position of the spine and reduce the load on the back muscles
• environmentally friendly materials in the upholstery, filler and base, which will not cause irritation and allergic reactions;
• reliable castors with locks (preferably at least 5) - this will be extremely useful, especially for irrepressible first graders;
• a high-quality footrest that relieves the load from the legs and is useful if the seat of the chair is too high;
• an ergonomic design that will allow the chair to be used in confined spaces;
• strong armrests, preferably removable, to relieve stress from the spine;
• light weight, sufficient for the stability of the model in place and for safe movement on casters around the room;
• a headrest that will relieve tension from the back;
• removable upholstery covers that can be easily washed, cleaned or replaced.

In addition, the chair model must be certified.

To determine if a particular computer chair is right for your child or not, directly when choosing a model, you need to ensure compliance with the following rules:

• the model must be suitable for the height, age and weight of your child;
• in a calm position, the child's feet should be level on a stand or on the floor, while the hands should lie directly in front of him on the armrests or on the surface of the desktop;
• in a calm position, the legs in the bend should be at a right angle;
• the bend of the elbow, subject to the placement of the child's hands on the armrests, should form a right angle;
• in a calm position, the back should not be hunched over, and it is also unacceptable for the child to sit on a chair with crossed legs.

Tips for choosing a computer chair for a student in the next video.