One thing that is evident in our classroom is that third-grade students have a lot of energy! Recently, a great deal of attention has been given to the importance of movement and activity for children, even during the school day. The materials requested for our classroom - wobble chairs, "wiggle" cushions, and stability ball chairs - all provide students with the option to sit and work in a manner that still allows them to receive constant sensory input and movement.
Physical activity has been linked to higher academic performance and improved behavior in the classroom. Providing students with flexible seating options allows them to burn more calories throughout the day, simultaneously using up excess energy, improving metabolism, and increasing motivation and engagement. There is also the added benefit of providing students with the element of choice and allowing them to take ownership over their own learning environment.
About my class
One thing that is evident in our classroom is that third-grade students have a lot of energy! Recently, a great deal of attention has been given to the importance of movement and activity for children, even during the school day. The materials requested for our classroom - wobble chairs, "wiggle" cushions, and stability ball chairs - all provide students with the option to sit and work in a manner that still allows them to receive constant sensory input and movement.
Physical activity has been linked to higher academic performance and improved behavior in the classroom. Providing students with flexible seating options allows them to burn more calories throughout the day, simultaneously using up excess energy, improving metabolism, and increasing motivation and engagement. There is also the added benefit of providing students with the element of choice and allowing them to take ownership over their own learning environment.