Kids' Computer Desks

Special Considerations

This purchase is not as straightforward as it seems. There are several things to consider when looking at children's computer desks:

• What is your budget?
• Where will you put the desk? Will it be in a corner?
• How much space is available for the desk?
• Will the desk be used for homework, too, or will it be solely a computer desk?
• What are the ages of the children using the desk? How long does it need to last?

Types of Children's Desks

Different desks are built for different purposes. Some are designed to comfortably support a child's growing body; others will grow and change with your child. Some are built for economy; others make a fashion statement. Ideally, the kids' workstation you choose will be able to meet most of these needs.

Ergonomic Kids' Computer Desks

We all know how our bodies ache when we've been sitting at poor quality chairs, hunched over computers. What many parents don't realize is that a poorly designed computer desk has the same effect on children. Sitting at a desk of poor quality or inappropriate size can cause the following problems in children:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tendonitis
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Muscle strain

Ergonomic kids' desks are designed to combat these problems. They are made in a way that allows for the development of good posture and optimal body alignment.

Ergonomic Desks Online

• Kidstation sells ergonomic workstations for kids from ages 3 to 8. The desks are brightly colored and durable. In addition, they are adjustable to grow with your child. The Kidstation Ergonomic Computer Desk is a winner of the Juvenile Product Association's Best in Show Award.
• Back Be Nimble offers ergonomic workstations by Balt. These desks for kids are available in such versatile finishes as gray laminate, mahogany laminate, teak laminate, and gray steel. The workstations are fully adjustable and can accommodate adults as well as kids.

Economical Kids' Desks

Low-cost children's desks are available at many kids' furniture stores. Department stores such as WalMart and Target also sell economical desks. When buying a low-cost work area, remember that it is probably not as well-made as a higher-cost desk and will likely have to be replaced. When you factor in the cost of replacement, it might make more sense to buy a higher quality, more expensive unit now. If you do opt for an economical version, try to find a desk that is adjustable. If possible, buy an ergonomic chair to use with the desk.

Designer Kids' Computer Desks

Some kids' desks are designed to be decorative, yet functional additions to kids' rooms or playrooms. Designer kids' computer stations are offered in a wide variety of styles, colors, and themes. The following is a sampling of the decorative desks available online:

• Home Visions sells desks in such fun colors as red, green, orange, sky blue, and pink. More traditional finishes are also available. One themed desk is designed to look like a bulldozer; another is modeled after picket fences.
• ChildrensDesks.com also offers brightly colored, fun computer desks for kids. One favorite,The Lil Sports Fan desk, is decorated with sports balls.
• Pottery Barn Kids offers kids' desks in a variety of styles, including traditional, contempory, and whimsical. Some models are small and compact while others are complete wall units. Still others are made to fit in corners.

Summary

A kids' computer desk is a large purchase and should not be taken lightly. Today's kids spend hours at a time working on the computer. A poorly designed desk can cause injury and discomfort. If possible, it is best to buy an ergonomic desk. At the very least, computer desks for kids should be adjustable to meet the needs of growing and changing bodies.