Found a lovely children's chair but not sure which seat height is right? With children in particular, the right height matters so they can sit comfortably and as ergonomically as possible. We show you what to look for when choosing a children's chair and which seat height suits which age.
How should children sit?
Before choosing a children's chair, it's worth looking at the right sitting position. If a chair is too high, your child's feet won't reach the floor. Children then quickly slide forward or adopt an awkward posture. If the chair is too low, on the other hand, their back doesn't get the support it needs.
The height is ideal when your child can sit with both feet flat on the floor and their thighs and lower legs form an angle of roughly 90 degrees.
That's why children's chairs come in different sizes. The popular Puppy by Magis, for example, is available in several sizes.
How do I work out the right seat height?
Age can be a first guide, but height – or more precisely, the length of the lower leg – matters more. After all, two children of the same height can have legs of different lengths.
A simple rule of thumb: the seat height should be slightly lower than the child's lower leg length. That way, their feet can rest comfortably on the floor.
If the lower leg length is between 36 and 40 cm, for example, a children's chair with a seat height of around 35 cm is a good fit. The Panton Junior by Vitra, for instance, has a seat height of 35 cm.
Which seat height for which age?
Children develop differently, so age guidelines are only ever a rough guide. The following seat heights can serve as orientation:
4 to 6 years: approx. 31 cm
6 to 8 years: approx. 35 cm
8 to 11 years: approx. 38–40 cm
11 to 12 years: approx. 46 cm
From around 11 to 12, many children can already sit comfortably on an adult chair. What matters most, though, is your child's individual height.
What to look for when buying a children's chair
Besides seat height, stability, comfort and how the chair will be used also play a role. Will it stand at a children's desk, be used for drawing and crafts, or go with a children's table? Make sure the chair and table heights match and that your child can sit comfortably with their feet on the floor.
That way, you'll find a children's chair that not only looks good in the children's room but is also the right size for your child.
