Why Sitting for Long Periods is Not Good for Children
Whether it's school, homework, or leisure time in front of a screen – children spend many hours sitting each day. The problem: their urge to move is much greater than the space we allow them. And the child's body – in development and growth – reacts sensitively to lack of movement.
This is also confirmed by the Research Paper “Healthy Sitting” (2025):
“Lack of movement and prolonged sitting in school and leisure time are considered the main causes of the increase in back pain already in childhood.”
The consequences range from poor posture to muscle tension to concentration problems – because with static sitting, not only the muscles, but also the brain are less activated.
Our new product on the topic of "Dynamic Sitting" will be released soon. Sign up now for the Secret Sale.
Sign up now & secure anticipation
Active Sitting: The Child-Friendly Solution
Active sitting means: staying in motion while sitting. Small posture changes, rocking, circling, or balancing – all done intuitively. This keeps the back muscles active, improves body awareness, and relieves the spine and intervertebral discs. Studies show: Concentration ability also increases when children are allowed to move slightly while sitting.
Which Furniture is Suitable for Active Sitting?
Ergonomists and pediatricians recommend movement-friendly seating furniture – for example:
- Dynamic Stools – they gently tilt, promote balance, and strengthen the core, e.g., from Stapelstein® Waters & Greens Set
- Balance Cushions or Elements – for small, unconscious movements while sitting
- Adjustable Children's Chairs – so that the seat height matches the body size and nothing is blocked
Movement Strengthens More Than Just the Back
Movement is not only a matter of posture but also of development. Active sitting not only helps with physical complaints – it also promotes concentration, self-regulation, and even emotional balance. Children who are allowed to move are more alert, balanced, and learn better. And: They often enjoy what they do more.
What Parents Can Do Specifically
- Reduce sitting times: Plan small movement breaks every 30–45 minutes
- Design the workplace child-friendly: Height-adjustable desk, flexible seating, good lighting
- Enable dynamic sitting: e.g., with a Stapelstein® stool or balance cushion
- Integrate movement into play: Obstacle courses, role-playing, balance exercises while learning
Conclusion: Movement is the best medicine
Back pain in children is not an inevitable phenomenon – it is often a result of our sedentary lifestyle. Active sitting offers a simple yet effective way to counteract this: playful, preventive, and child-friendly. And the best part? Children don't need instructions for this. Just space and trust.
Instead of “Sit still!” rather: “Move as you like.”
Discover movement-friendly seating furniture
Frequently Asked Questions about Back Pain & Active Sitting
-
Why do more and more children have back pain?
Prolonged, immobile sitting, lack of movement, and improper seating furniture are common causes. -
How can active sitting help?
It activates muscles, relieves the spine, and improves concentration. -
What seating furniture is suitable for children?
Recommended are movement-friendly furniture like dynamic stools, balance cushions, or Stapelsteine.
Read More:
- Ergonomic seating furniture for children
- Dynamic Sitting – A Matter of Posture
- Ergonomic seating furniture for children - What to consider?
Sources
- Engeroff, T. et al. (2023): Current evidence on the health effects of sedentary behavior in children. DOI:10.1007/s12662-022-00859-6
- Karolinska Institutet (2022): Movement and concentration in primary school children
- Stapelstein Research (2025): Healthy Sitting – Dynamic Sitting and Sit-Stand Dynamics
- WHO (2020): Guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behavior
