With kids spending so much time behind a computer, television, or video game console, we must explore safe and appropriate ways of using technology with respect to their bodies.

EARNED/LIMITED TIME:
Extended periods of physical inactivity can vastly affect a person’s health.  It is recommended that any time spent on the computer, video game, or watching television be limited to a predetermined amount of time.  A pre-set schedule of use times allows parents to monitor and control when technology is being used and for how long.  This schedule should be negotiated and agreed upon by children and parents.

TAKE A BREAK:
Parents should recommend, if not require, that children take a break from using technology every 20 minutes, no matter what they are doing.  Children should get up, stretch, and walk around the house.  Use the 20-20-20 rule; every 20 minutes, stretch for 20 seconds and stare at something 20 feet away.  This will improve concentration and help with the inactivity issue discussed above.

POSTURE:
With a lifetime of technology use ahead of them, learning proper posture is a must.  Proper posture when seated behind a computer can limit or reduce the risks of developing injuries in the following areas:

• Neck
• Shoulders
• Wrists
• Fingers
• Low Back
• Hips
• Knees

1. Computer users should sit at the computer with a straight, relaxed back.  Make sure they do not slouch or hunch over.  Their back should touch the back of the chair.  Remember to keep your shoulders and neck relaxed.
2. Users should sit directly facing the computer.  The chair should not be turned to one side or the other. The computer should be placed 6-8 inches short of arms length away. 
3. Users should not have their arms sharply bent (less that 90 degrees) or straight out and rigid. 
4. Feet should be on the floor.  Users should not sit on their feet or bend their knees too sharply.
5. The hands, wrists, and fingers should be relaxed.  Try not to be too rigid or too loose, just  relaxed.
6. The monitor should be positioned at eye level, if you are using a desktop computer.
7. The MOST IMPORTANT THING: Make sure you are comfortable