Kids and Posture – Does It Really Matter and What Should You Do About It?

Murray Leyland
Feb 4
2 min read

I was just with a patient the other day — a mum brought in her young daughter and asked, "Can you check her posture? She always slouches — is that bad for her back?”

It’s a great question.

And one I get a lot.

There’s so much noise out there about kids needing to “sit up straight” or “stand tall” — as if posture alone will make or break their future spine health.

So, let’s cut through the myths and get practical about what really matters when it comes to kids and posture.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhcpcOcCy-E

What Actually is a "good posture"?

We’ve all grown up hearing that good posture means sitting tall, shoulders back, chest out — right?

But truthfully, posture isn’t about being frozen in one perfect position.

It’s about movement and variety.

Historically, “good posture” came from the royal classes — upright, chin up, poised — because it symbolised wealth and discipline. But from a physio’s point of view, posture isn’t a status symbol.

It’s a snapshot of how you move.

So rather than thinking “good vs bad posture,” think:

How much does your child move throughout the day?
Do they sit, stand, climb, crawl, stretch, jump and play?

Because that’s what builds healthy muscles and joints — not sitting like a soldier.

Why posture worries parents?

It makes total sense that parents worry about slouching.

You see your kid bent over a tablet or homework and think, that can’t be good for them.

And yes — staying in one position for too long can cause stiffness or fatigue, especially as kids grow and their bones and muscles adapt at different rates.

But posture itself doesn’t cause long-term “damage.”

What does?

A lack of movement variety
Weakness or poor endurance in key muscles
Carrying heavy school bags incorrectly
Or just sitting still for too long.

So it’s not about “fixing” posture — it’s about building capacity.

Helping the body become strong, adaptable, and able to handle the postures life throws at it.

So, what can you do to help?

Here’s what I recommend parents focus on:

Encourage movement variety
Limit long sitting time
Build core and shoulder strength
Watch the school bag
Make it fun

Simple. Practical. Effective.

The big picture

Posture isn’t a problem to fix — it’s a part of movement to nurture.

If your child moves well, plays freely, and has a balance of strength and flexibility, they’re already on track for a healthy spine and body.

If you’ve noticed your child struggling with pain, fatigue, or awkward posture patterns — that’s when it’s worth getting them checked by a physio.