Parents of schoolchildren often consider how to buy the necessary school supplies as well as the “right” desk and chair. Choosing the right chair is crucial as it can help prevent scoliosis and other posture-related issues; after all, at this age, a child’s spine is still developing. It’s essential to create conditions for healthy development. So, how to choose a chair for a school-age child?
It’s very important to ensure your child has proper back support while studying. Therefore, when selecting such furniture, pay attention to the following aspects:
Reliability
The chair should be, first and foremost, reliable: ideally with a steel or aluminum frame, which offers longer durability. Some manufacturers design models with five support points. If you’re selecting a chair with wheels, pay special attention to the wheels, as they are often the first part to wear out. Additionally, a child’s chair should have a locking mechanism to prevent rotation and movement.
Safety
The materials used should be environmentally friendly. Lacquers or paints are not ideal as they may cause allergic reactions. If you choose a painted model, make sure to check for quality certification of the materials used.
Practicality
Choose a model that’s easy to care for, as children often leave stains that can be difficult to remove. If you’re buying a chair, consider getting a cover that’s easy to clean.
Comfort
Consider factors such as the depth and shape of the seat. The child should be comfortable and feel at ease. Keep in mind that they will spend a lot of time doing homework or other activities. The chair’s design should promote correct posture. When seated, the child’s knees should form a right angle, and their back should rest against the chair back.
Backrest
The backrest should support the lower back and prevent the spine from curving. The best backrest for a child is slightly curved forward or one that can be adjusted for tilt. Its height should align with the child’s shoulder blades.
Seat
The seat should be firm, level, and adjustable in depth and height. A long time spent sitting on a soft seat can lead to spinal curvature in children.
Armrests
A well-designed chair for a child ideally has no armrests at all. Leaning on armrests can cause a child to slouch to one side, leading to posture problems. If armrests are present, they should be height-adjustable.
Helpful tips to choose a chair for a school-age child:
- Avoid buying furniture “for growth.” Furniture made for adults isn’t suitable for younger children.
- Parents often wonder whether to choose a chair or a more advanced swivel chair. A simpler children’s chair without wheels or extra features is better, as it reduces distractions during study time.
- A child’s feet should rest flat on the floor. If they don’t, but the chair model is perfect in other ways, consider adding a footrest.
- The child’s arms should rest on the desk surface, forming a right angle.
- Choose natural materials that are eco-friendly. If there’s upholstery, it should be breathable and moisture-wicking.
- It’s best to take your child along when buying furniture so they can choose a model they like. If the child finds the chair uncomfortable, it’s better to consider a different option.