Health and safety
The hazards of two much time online
The internet can be bad for your health, according to recent research. Studies in the US show that as many as 10 per cent of all internet users have an addiction. Just because your child likes using the computer doesn't mean they are addicted to it, but it's a good idea to put some limits on how often and for how long they use it.
If you're worried that they are spending too long on the computer, ask these two questions:
Children aged 8 to 11 use the internet for an average of 4.4 hours per week, while those aged 12 to 15 are online for an average of 8 hours - Ofcom report 2006.
- when they start to use the internet, do they have trouble saying how long they will be online, and sticking to it?
- are they sacrificing their other interests and friends for time on the internet?
If the answer to both questions is 'yes', then it may be worth having a talk.
What you can do
- children should take a break from the computer at least every 20 minutes. Their internet sessions should be restricted to an age-appropriate time limit agreed in your family code
- sitting at a computer uses muscles in the hands, wrists and neck which can start to ache so it is a good idea to do simple stretching to relieve any stiffness. Prolonged use without rest or stretching can result in repetitive strain injury (RSI). You should also get up and walk around at least once an hour
- refresh your eye muscles regularly by focusing on distant, then close, objects
- children could create their own 'computer workout' routine that includes all of these exercises
- make sure you and your children have a good posture at the computer - heads should not lean forward as this puts a strain on the neck; chins need to tucked in; backs supported in an upright position; and the body should be facing forward, not twisted sideways
- you should also be able to adjust the height of the chair to suit the user. Lower arms should be roughly horizontal when working, knees should be comfortable and relaxed with thighs roughly horizontal under the desk. Use footrests if necessary. Remember, everyone in your family is different
- the top of the computer screen should be roughly at eye level and should be adjusted for each member of the family. You should also have the option to have the keyboard flat or tilted
- if you are sharing the computer, make sure everyone can see without straining
- to help reduce eyestrain, screens should be positioned to reduce reflections and glare from lights and windows
- beware of any stray leads that could cause injury by trips or falls and never overload power supplies
- if something goes wrong with the computer, remind your children that they should never touch electrical cables or remove casing to check inside the machine
Next Steps
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