One of the main focuses in my classroom is developing a learning environment that makes coming to school enjoyable and meaningful. Just like adults get tired of sitting in hard chairs all day, students do too! They need more flexible/comfortable seating options to enhance student engagement and learning. Research shows that students learn better when they are physically active and comfortable. I use a lot of kinesthetic activities to address the physical side of the research, and I am slowly implementing a more flexible seating plan.
Since beginning to incorporate flexible seating, I have seen engagement levels from my students soar, behavior issues decrease, and attendance increase.
Currently, my classroom allows for seven students to opt out of traditional style desks. I have a couch, a cafe table with two stools, and a couple of small desks on the floor. I allow my students to sit on the floor during independent work time and I have noticed that with or without a pillow they are more productive. The products I have chosen below (shag carpet, 2 rocker chairs, pillows, low table to allow students to sit on the floor) will allow for more diverse and comfortable options. These additional items will give all students the opportunity to choose a seating style that works best for them for at least half of the time they are in my class.
About my class
One of the main focuses in my classroom is developing a learning environment that makes coming to school enjoyable and meaningful. Just like adults get tired of sitting in hard chairs all day, students do too! They need more flexible/comfortable seating options to enhance student engagement and learning. Research shows that students learn better when they are physically active and comfortable. I use a lot of kinesthetic activities to address the physical side of the research, and I am slowly implementing a more flexible seating plan.
Since beginning to incorporate flexible seating, I have seen engagement levels from my students soar, behavior issues decrease, and attendance increase.
Currently, my classroom allows for seven students to opt out of traditional style desks. I have a couch, a cafe table with two stools, and a couple of small desks on the floor. I allow my students to sit on the floor during independent work time and I have noticed that with or without a pillow they are more productive. The products I have chosen below (shag carpet, 2 rocker chairs, pillows, low table to allow students to sit on the floor) will allow for more diverse and comfortable options. These additional items will give all students the opportunity to choose a seating style that works best for them for at least half of the time they are in my class.
Read more