Start with Stability
In therapy we talk about the 90-90-90 rule. This means that when seated at a desk, we want to ensure the following:
If the table top is too high: a child will prop his elbows up and out, hike up his shoulders and possibly lean his body against the desk.
If the table is too low: a child will slouch and lean his body on the table.
Both scenarios affect the efficiency of handwriting/working (because now your child has to use his energy to stabilize himself instead of using that energy to focus on the task at hand).
To help your child sit correctly, table legs can be adjusted as well as the height of the chair. You can also use a wedge on the chair to encourage proper sitting posture. The heights can also be corrected using foot rests or foot pillows and Chair pillows.
Finally, change postures often to keep the energy flowing. Note the length of time it takes to feel your circulation slow and stop whereby sensation is lost and build a personal timetable for movement.
In therapy we talk about the 90-90-90 rule. This means that when seated at a desk, we want to ensure the following:
- Feet flat on the floor 90 degrees at ankles
- Knees bent at 90 degrees
- Hips at 90 degrees
If the table top is too high: a child will prop his elbows up and out, hike up his shoulders and possibly lean his body against the desk.
If the table is too low: a child will slouch and lean his body on the table.
Both scenarios affect the efficiency of handwriting/working (because now your child has to use his energy to stabilize himself instead of using that energy to focus on the task at hand).
To help your child sit correctly, table legs can be adjusted as well as the height of the chair. You can also use a wedge on the chair to encourage proper sitting posture. The heights can also be corrected using foot rests or foot pillows and Chair pillows.
Finally, change postures often to keep the energy flowing. Note the length of time it takes to feel your circulation slow and stop whereby sensation is lost and build a personal timetable for movement.
