FEATURE
TO FOLD OR NOT TO FOLD
A typical folding chair
DESIGN DETAILS
• folding mechanism
usually with 2
scissoring flexible
cross pieces and
cloth or leather seat
• For details of a
make-it-yourself
model, see p. 622.
ARMRESTS
No armrests
Note: Many chairs are
built so that armrests
are part of the main
structure and strength of
the chair. The armrests
cannot be easily removed,
even though this might
benefit the child.
Carefully consider the
child’s need for armrests
before buying or making a
chair.
Fixed armrests
The so-called
‘desk arm’ lets
front of chair
fit under a
table—but is
often too high
or too short.
• Armrest height and
length should be
determined for each
child and her needs.
• For measurements,
see p. 602.
SPECIAL SEATS AND WHEELCHAIRS 599
ADVANTAGES
Folding:
• narrow when folded
for easier transport or
storage
• smoother ride due to
flexibility
Non-folding:
• cheaper and
lighter
• easier to make
• more adaptable
• often stronger
• Many children with
strong arms and trunk
control prefer a chair
with no armrests
and a very low back
support.
• Moving by pushing the
wheels is easier.
• less weight
• Getting off and on
from the side is
easier—especially
important when
legs are completely
paralyzed and when
arms are also weak.
DISADVANTAGES
Folding:
• heavier
• harder to make
• more costly
• less adaptable
Non-folding:
• Transport in cars and
buses more difficult.
Consider how much
this will affect the
child’s ability to go
where she wants.
• stiff ride
• Many small children
need armrests
for stability, for
positioning, or for
comfort.
• especially helpful if
child cannot use legs
to get out of chair
• They can help child
to sit in a better
position and be more
comfortable.
• They can sometimes
be used for attaching
a removable table.
• They get in the way
for pushing wheels
and for getting off
chair to the side.
• For many
children, fixed
armrests get in
the way more than
they help.
Removable armrests
adjustable
armrest
• In folding chairs, armrest
attachments must be
placed so they do not
get in the way of
folding.
• Provides arm support
when needed, yet can
easily be removed for
travel and transfer.
• requires more work,
materials, and exact
fittings
• adds slightly to
weight
• Separate armrests
may get lost.
Armrest
fits into
these tubes.
child transferring from a
chair on a board—one
armrest removed
disabled village children