The Physical Demands and Ergonomics of Working with Young Children

Abstract

The physical demands of working with young children in child care - the need to lift, carry, bend, and sit on small furniture and the floor - is an integral part of the child care day. Yet most research and writing on child care "health and safety issues" investigates susceptibility to and/or incidence of infectious disease, when it studies the adult worker at all. This paper examines the physical demands and ergonomic concerns within child care settings. The "why" and "how" of assessing the physical demands inherent in child care work and the worksite/classroom are presented. Problem areas and ergonomic recommendations for room design and staff training are discussed. There are important implications for writing job descriptions, determining essential job functions, staff orientation and training, and a commitment to improving the child care work environment.