Reducing Your youngster's Risk of Computer Vision Syndrome and Ergonomics Problems

            To reduce your youngster's risk of childhood computer vision syndrome and computer ergonomics problems, make sure he or she is seated comfortably and has a "neutral" posture when working at the computer. Characteristics of this posture include:

• Head is balanced on neck, not tilted back or forward. Computer screen should be positioned approximately 15 degrees below eye level.

• Back is straight and shoulders back but relaxed. Avoid slumping forward over the keyboard.
• Upper arms are close to the body and relaxed, not angled away from his sides or tilted forward.
• Forearms are flat on the desk, with the elbows forming at least a 90-degree angle.
• Hands are nearly level with forearm, with little wrist bend.
• Feet are flat on the floor or a footrest, with knees forming at least a 90-degree angle. (The angle behind the knee should be open; don't tuck legs under the chair.)

            Many experts also recommend getting away from the computer every 20 to 30 minutes to stand and stretch. This helps relieve muscle tension that can contribute to computer vision problems and computer ergonomics problems.