As our school year began, I could quickly see that my students really moved a lot during the day. As we began to get to know each other we talked a great deal about what we needed to be comfortable and learn the best. As a classroom community we decided that we needed to move, not only around the room, but at our assigned seats, as well. We also needed to have a choice in our seating arrangements. So I made a promise to my students that I would help them create a classroom where they could get their wiggles out while still learning.
We started our year by borrowing a few flexible seating options from fellow teachers. My students loved the wobble chairs and had a difficult time giving those back, so we knew those were a must have in our classroom. Next we tried stability balls, but quickly realized we needed ones that did not move away from us, because our legs are not super long. We needed chairs with legs or a base!
We also talked in detail about our "moving" feet and how to keep them moving without bothering those around us. That was when several of my kids said their favorite way to exercise was to ride their bikes. They asked if we could have bikes in our room, and I told them I knew about another great option, pedal bikes, that would fit right under our tables. They were in love instantly!
Please help my active, eager to learn 1st graders "move" their learning into a physically active room that is conducive for kids. The days of standard seating options and independent work is no more. We are learning to collaborate, communicate, think creatively and critically in first grade to become 21st century learners!
About my class
As our school year began, I could quickly see that my students really moved a lot during the day. As we began to get to know each other we talked a great deal about what we needed to be comfortable and learn the best. As a classroom community we decided that we needed to move, not only around the room, but at our assigned seats, as well. We also needed to have a choice in our seating arrangements. So I made a promise to my students that I would help them create a classroom where they could get their wiggles out while still learning.
We started our year by borrowing a few flexible seating options from fellow teachers. My students loved the wobble chairs and had a difficult time giving those back, so we knew those were a must have in our classroom. Next we tried stability balls, but quickly realized we needed ones that did not move away from us, because our legs are not super long. We needed chairs with legs or a base!
We also talked in detail about our "moving" feet and how to keep them moving without bothering those around us. That was when several of my kids said their favorite way to exercise was to ride their bikes. They asked if we could have bikes in our room, and I told them I knew about another great option, pedal bikes, that would fit right under our tables. They were in love instantly!
Please help my active, eager to learn 1st graders "move" their learning into a physically active room that is conducive for kids. The days of standard seating options and independent work is no more. We are learning to collaborate, communicate, think creatively and critically in first grade to become 21st century learners!
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