Deformation or displacement of the spine threatens serious problems in the future. That is why many children are forced to wear posture correctors (read about how to choose one correctly here). But spinal defects can be prevented if you teach a child to sit correctly.
Schoolchildren spend 45 minutes sitting, without the opportunity to stand up and stretch. Throughout the entire lesson, not only the child's brain is under tension, but also the back. You can 'unload' the back if you accustom them to correct posture in advance.
Requirements for the desk
Desks for school are ordered according to standard. But it is not suitable for all children. There are several points that will help you understand whether your child will be comfortable sitting at the desk or not.
1. Feet should be on the floor. The entire foot, from heel to toe. If the child's legs dangle in the air, this puts additional strain on the leg and back muscles.
2. Checking the correct ratio of table and chair is easy: when the child is sitting, ask them to place their elbows on the table and touch their temples with their fingertips. It is correct if they can do this without slouching.
3. It is better if your home desk is a transformer. That is, with the ability to adjust height. Then you won't have to get a new one every year.
If your home desk meets these requirements, then learning will be easier: there will be less fatigue.
Getting used to sitting
During the learning process, remember that the child is at home. You do not need to force them to sit for a long time and straight while also following an educational program. Let them do something of their own: draw or read. You only need to make sure they do it correctly.
Watch the time. A load on an unprepared back for more than 30 minutes can be unfavorable. So occasionally take the child away from their activity for physical relief.
While sitting, follow the rules:
• feet should be straight, do not allow the child to tuck them under or cross one over the other;
• elbows are on the table, resting on the table;
• distance between torso and desk – the width of the child's palm;
• back straight, head slightly tilted forward.
Naturally, at first it will be difficult to follow these guidelines. Make the sitting time short, then gradually increase the number. And to make it less difficult for the child to sit, come up with an interesting activity for them: coloring, drawing, appliqué. This way you will develop not only back muscles but also perseverance.