Making smart choices to create the optimal learning environment has always been a priority in my classroom. However, there has not been much choice in seating. I have assigned students’ seats in a variety of arrangements – collaborative groups, rows, small groups, single desks… but what I have come to notice is no matter how I arrange the desks and chairs, students still get fidgety and have a difficult time sitting at their desks. A few students are able to sit at the traditional chair/desk arrangement, but most 2nd graders find it very difficult. I have found they appreciate having the ability to stand or kneel at their desks, or even work on the floor with a clipboard. Some need to wiggle more, while others are perfectly content nestling in a book nook and reading quietly.
With increased academic demands and diminished recess time, children require more physical stimulation throughout the day in the classroom setting. For that reason, I would like to incorporate flexible seating in my classroom to allow my students the opportunity to move and wiggle, and at the same time give them the responsibility of choice in where to sit in order to better achieve their educational goals.
The seating choices I am hoping to provide for my students next year consist of swivel ball chairs, a bean bag chair, floor seats, a comfy couch, and wobble cushions. I would like to provide my students with choice and variety to meet their diverse learning needs. Also, I want my students to know what sort of environment they work best in. I believe flexible and stimulating seating will engage my students to create a sense of ownership for their own personal learning.
About my class
Making smart choices to create the optimal learning environment has always been a priority in my classroom. However, there has not been much choice in seating. I have assigned students’ seats in a variety of arrangements – collaborative groups, rows, small groups, single desks… but what I have come to notice is no matter how I arrange the desks and chairs, students still get fidgety and have a difficult time sitting at their desks. A few students are able to sit at the traditional chair/desk arrangement, but most 2nd graders find it very difficult. I have found they appreciate having the ability to stand or kneel at their desks, or even work on the floor with a clipboard. Some need to wiggle more, while others are perfectly content nestling in a book nook and reading quietly.
With increased academic demands and diminished recess time, children require more physical stimulation throughout the day in the classroom setting. For that reason, I would like to incorporate flexible seating in my classroom to allow my students the opportunity to move and wiggle, and at the same time give them the responsibility of choice in where to sit in order to better achieve their educational goals.
The seating choices I am hoping to provide for my students next year consist of swivel ball chairs, a bean bag chair, floor seats, a comfy couch, and wobble cushions. I would like to provide my students with choice and variety to meet their diverse learning needs. Also, I want my students to know what sort of environment they work best in. I believe flexible and stimulating seating will engage my students to create a sense of ownership for their own personal learning.
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