Is Your Child's Screen Time Affecting Their Posture and Neck?

By Dr Shinay Labuschagne (Chiropractor)

Screens are part of everyday life now. Whether it’s schoolwork, staying in touch with family, or winding down with a favourite show, kids are spending more time on devices than ever. Ever noticed your child sitting with their head hanging forward, shoulders rounded, or complaining about a sore neck after time on a tablet or phone?

You’re not imagining it.

The Modern “Tech Neck”

Looking down at a screen pulls the head forward. The average head weighs around 4 to 5 kg, and the further forward it tilts, the heavier it feels on the muscles, joints and ligaments in the neck.

Over time, prolonged screen use can contribute to:

• Neck and upper back discomfort
• Rounded shoulders
• Headaches
• Muscle fatigue
• Poor posture habits that may carry into adulthood

Kids’ bodies are still growing, so good movement habits matter even more during these years.

It’s Not Just About Posture

Children aren’t built to stay still for long stretches. More screen time usually means less outdoor play, less physical activity, and fewer chances to build balance, coordination and strength.

Spending more time sitting and less time moving can make it harder for children to develop healthy movement habits.

What Can Parents Do?

Small changes go a long way. A few things to try:

• Build in movement breaks every 20 to 30 minutes.
• Hold screens at eye level rather than down in the lap.
• Make outdoor play and active hobbies the priority over screen time.
• Set screen time limits that fit your child’s age.
• Model good habits yourself. Kids notice more than we think.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

At Family Chiropractic Bundaberg, we look at more than posture alone. We assess how your child moves and look for areas of tension or restricted movement that may be contributing to discomfort or changes in posture. If prolonged screen use has contributed to muscle tension, reduced mobility or changes in movement patterns, chiropractic care may help improve joint and muscle function as part of an overall approach that also includes healthy habits at home.

We’re not trying to get rid of technology. The goal is simply to help kids move well and build habits that stick.

Technology isn’t the enemy, but long stretches of poor posture put unnecessary strain on growing bodies. Regular movement, sensible screen limits, and better posture habits go a long way for your child’s spine over time.