Correct Sitting Posture

Good posture provides the foundation for correct movement. When starting a desk activity, make sure that the child follows the 90-90-90 rule. The child’s feet should be flat on the ground with a 90-degree angle at the ankles, knees and hips. The child's arms should comfortably rest on the desk with their neck, shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers relaxed allowing the child to have a supporting hand on the paper while writing. The desktop should be 2 inches above the bent elbow (with the students arms at their sides). If the table is too high, elbows will be up and out to the sides and they may lay their trunk or head on desktop. If the table is too low, the child may slump in their chair or rest their head on their hand.

• When possible, allow children to work in various positions other than seated (standing at a vertical surface, lying on the floor propped on elbows).

Modifications:
To elevate seated height: Use Move ‘N Sit cushions, seat cushions, folded towels or blankets, etc.
To provide foot support: Use footstools, milk crates, blocks, storage bins, stuffed shoe boxes, phone books, catalogs, etc.
Back support: Use rolled towels or blankets, lumbar rolls, or Move ’N Sit cushions as back rest.

**Up to 60% of school day is spent sitting, for durations of up to 90 minutes long. (Linton et al., 1994). Sitting durations increase with grade level.
Studies have shown that students sat better, were on task more, and had higher test scores while seated in correct size furniture (Wingrat, 2007).

Try to incorporate a 2-minute break every 20 to 30 minutes.


OT/PT Department