As our kids grow, their study space becomes one of the most important areas they'll spend time in. Choosing the right desk and chair isn't just about comfort—it's about supporting their health and making sure they can study efficiently.
So how do we pick the best study furniture for our little learners? Well, let's take a look at the national standards that can guide us, and why it's so important to follow them for their well-being.
Get the right size desk and chair
According to the national standards for school desks and chairs (GB/T 3976-2014), the size of the desk and chair is key. First things first, the desk should be at least 70cm long and 45cm wide. This gives your child enough room to spread out their materials without feeling cramped. When it comes to the chair, it's crucial that it matches your child's body. The seat should be no less than 35cm wide, with a backrest that provides good support for their spine. The backrest should fit comfortably against their back, helping them maintain good posture.
Adjustable height for growing kids
As kids grow, their study furniture needs to adjust with them. The desk and chair height should be able to change as they grow taller. The most accurate way to choose the right desk and chair is by using a height chart based on your child's current height. If your child falls between two sizes, just remember the golden rule: when sitting, their back should be straight, their thighs should be parallel to the ground, and their feet should rest flat on the floor. The elbows should be slightly below the desk surface by about 3-4 cm. By following these guidelines, you'll make sure the furniture supports their body in the best way possible.
Here's a quick guide for matching desk and chair height to your child's height:
• Height 119cm and under: Desk height 490mm, Chair height 270mm
• Height 120-134cm: Desk height 550mm, Chair height 300mm
• Height 135-149cm: Desk height 610mm, Chair height 340mm
• Height 150-164cm: Desk height 670mm, Chair height 380mm
• Height 165-179cm: Desk height 730mm, Chair height 420mm
• Height 180cm and above: Desk height 790mm, Chair height 460mm
When the desk and chair aren't adjustable
Sometimes, the study desk and chair you already have at home may not be adjustable. Don't worry—you can still work with what you've got! If the desk is too high, choose a taller chair and add a footrest to keep their feet flat on the ground. If the desk is too low, try raising it with safe, stable objects. Just make sure the adjustments are secure and won't cause any accidents.
Space matters: Room to move and stretch
If the study desk has drawers, ensure there's enough room underneath for your child's knees to fit comfortably. They should be able to sit without feeling cramped. It's also important to avoid desks with barriers or footrests under the table. These can block leg movement and lead to discomfort after long periods of sitting. The goal is for your child to be able to shift positions easily and feel relaxed.
Avoid using adult furniture for kids
It might be tempting to use an adult-sized desk and chair, but it's not the best option. Adult furniture isn't designed with kids in mind—it can hurt their posture and may not provide the support they need. Stick with furniture designed specifically for children to help them maintain a healthy posture while they work.
Creating good habits beyond furniture
Picking the right desk and chair is just one part of the equation. We also need to teach our kids good habits for protecting their eyes and posture. For example, remind them to keep their eyes about a foot away from the book, their chest a fist-length from the desk, and their hand holding the pen should be about an inch from the pen tip.
Additionally, make sure they take breaks while studying. They shouldn't use their eyes for close-up tasks for more than 40 minutes without taking a 10-minute break. They can look out the window or do eye exercises to give their eyes some relief.
How to use electronics safely
We all know how much kids love electronics, but overuse can be damaging. After 20 minutes of screen time, encourage your child to take a break and look into the distance for 10 minutes. For non-study purposes, kids should limit screen time to 15 minutes per session, with a daily total of no more than one hour. The younger they are, the less time they should spend on electronic devices.
Wrap-up: Make sure your child's study space is the best it can be
When we're setting up a study space for our kids, it's not just about the desk and chair. It's about helping them build good habits and a comfortable environment that supports their learning and growth. By following these simple tips and making smart choices, we can protect their health and set them up for success in school.
So, Lykkers, have you checked your kids' study furniture lately? Is it time for an upgrade to help them stay healthy while studying? Share your thoughts with us!
