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As an adult, I loathe the idea of sitting in a chair at my desk all day with only intermittent breaks. I love to move around while I brainstorm (and teach); exercise when I get stressed; lounge on the couch to grade papers or plan lessons; and read in my bed. And yet, my classroom is full of a variety of rows and clusters of desks. I try to get creative with the layout, but if it is hard for me to do my best in an uncomfortable position, how can I expect my students to stay engaged? My 21st-Century learners need a variety of options within the classroom to meet their diverse personalities and learning styles. I give them freedom around my room right now, but choices are extremely limited. It isn't just research-based; I have seen first-hand how my students behave better, stay more engaged, and put forth more effort...just because they are allowed more freedom, more responsibility, and movement within the classroom environment. It is literally "magic". This is why I feel that my students deserve alternatives to the desk/chair combo such as cushions, wobble chairs, peanut chairs, stools, and more. Especially when we're engrossed in a great book in class...no one wants to sit upright at a desk! This would be a fantastic start to our flexible seating classroom, giving the kids a chance to figure out where they feel most comfortable, inviting creativity, and allowing them to be more successful.
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