Health issues such as obesity, eye defects and inappropriate body growth in children are effects of sitting in front of computers for long hours.

Many children in developed countries have weight problems because of the increased rate at which children are using computers, watching Television and playing video games.

Most children attain and maintain a healthy weight if they eat right and lead the right lifestyle that suits their normal growth. Several gadgets such as computers, Play stations and video games are addictive.

While chatting or playing video games children tend to eat lots of snacks and ice cream and avoid eating organic foods because they just cannot let go of their gadgets.

When they do not play outdoors, they become obese.
If adults who constantly use computers get problems ranging from neck pains, backaches or tingling in their fingers, how about children who are still growing—this means that they could live with these defects all their lives.

Prolonged computer use is linked to glaucoma, especially among those who are short-sighted. Eyes are badly affected by how long you stare at the bright computer screen.

When people stop blinking because they are staring at a computer, this strains their eyes and dries them out.
Parents and teachers need to always regulate the time children use on computers as well as monitor their sitting posture.

Children should be able to reach the keyboard and mouse at the same time and also bend elbows at 90 degrees, with their shoulders relaxed.

They should sit with their backs straight and the top of the monitor should be just below eye level. If the monitor is to the left or right of the keyboard that means they will strain their necks.

Spending long hours typing leads to wrist aches that may lead to numbness. However, a break of about 5 to 6 hours outdoors playing games will distract them from gadgets. This also does wonders for their joints and muscles.

Dorau20@yahoo.co.uk