With a class of very active third graders, flexible seating is very important. If I can implement flexible seating in my classroom, I expect to see great benefits with student academic performance. I have several kiddos in my class who always want to stand, or wiggle in the seats that they do have, often falling out of their chairs. This is because traditional school chairs are uncomfortable!
Some of the immediate benefits of flexible seating include burning more calories, using up excess energy, improving metabolism, increased motivation and engagement, creating a better oxygen flow to the brain, and improving core strength and overall posture. It's no surprise that physical activity is linked to higher academic performance, better health, and improved behavior.
I plan to allow students to choose among Hokki stools of varied heights, giant floor pillows with either a clipboard or lap desk, soft seat cushions for use with traditional chairs, and "back-patter" seats which offer back support while allowing children to stretch their legs.
Hokki stools have a supported base and flexible top to encourage good posture and allow a little "wiggle room." The center of operations will be the floor rug which matches my classroom theme of camping. I envision the class meeting on the rug to get directions for tasks and then go to their seating choices to finish.
I was inspired to convert my classroom after having a student who could not stay focused in a traditional classroom setup. I decided to give him flexible seating and have watched him start to grow as a learner. He completes tasks and spends a minimal time off-task. And now the rest of the class wants to do the same thing.
I see great potential in my students, that is just one comfortable seat away from coming true!
About my class
With a class of very active third graders, flexible seating is very important. If I can implement flexible seating in my classroom, I expect to see great benefits with student academic performance. I have several kiddos in my class who always want to stand, or wiggle in the seats that they do have, often falling out of their chairs. This is because traditional school chairs are uncomfortable!
Some of the immediate benefits of flexible seating include burning more calories, using up excess energy, improving metabolism, increased motivation and engagement, creating a better oxygen flow to the brain, and improving core strength and overall posture. It's no surprise that physical activity is linked to higher academic performance, better health, and improved behavior.
I plan to allow students to choose among Hokki stools of varied heights, giant floor pillows with either a clipboard or lap desk, soft seat cushions for use with traditional chairs, and "back-patter" seats which offer back support while allowing children to stretch their legs.
Hokki stools have a supported base and flexible top to encourage good posture and allow a little "wiggle room." The center of operations will be the floor rug which matches my classroom theme of camping. I envision the class meeting on the rug to get directions for tasks and then go to their seating choices to finish.
I was inspired to convert my classroom after having a student who could not stay focused in a traditional classroom setup. I decided to give him flexible seating and have watched him start to grow as a learner. He completes tasks and spends a minimal time off-task. And now the rest of the class wants to do the same thing.
I see great potential in my students, that is just one comfortable seat away from coming true!
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