Webster Dictionary defines ergonomics as designing and arranging things used so that people and things interact most efficiently and safely.

Our kids are back in school. They are also at home sitting at their desks doing homework - right mom and dad?

Ergonomics is just as important in the classroom as at the office. Slumping over a school desk, like slumping over a work desk, can lead to muscle pain, spinal problems, and increased likelihood of osteoarthritis.

Students are spending more and more time at computers today. Here are some simple guidelines designed for when our kids are at the computer both inside and outside the classroom:

1. Sit up straight. Feet flat on floor or on a footrest.
2. Keep lower arms level with table and wrists straight.
3. Sit close to keyboard to eliminate stretching, but far enough to avoid leaning.
4. Tap keyboard lightly, don’t pound.
5. Place mouse within easy reach of dominant hand.
6. Hold mouse loosely. Don’t squeeze.
7. Place monitor at eye level, 16 to 24 inches away.
8. Take short breaks every 20 minutes. Get up and move around.
9. Exercise eyes frequently. Look away and focus on distant objects.