Alternative Seating and Fidgets Really Work in the Classroom!
My students need various seating options to maximize their ability to complete work to the best of their ability. My students would also benefit from fidgets that help them focus on their work.
My third grade class is very diverse. They come from all socio-economic levels. They have various ethnic backgrounds. They all love to learn and make my job amazing.
I have some students with IEPs, some with 504 service agreements and some that are gifted.
They work hard all day, even with all the attention and focus issues. Many of my students have been identified as having ADHD.
It can be challenging to meet all these needs but my coteacher and I work very hard to meet everyone's needs, everyday. We are constantly modifying assignments and restructuring lessons so that everyone will benefit. We have been working together for three years and our students really benefit!
My Project
Students don't always succeed when sitting in a regular chair all day, everyday. Having alternative seating, like stools, yoga balls and beanbags available will allow students to choose how they work best and we know that students work best when they are comfortable. Not everyone is comfortable in a standard chair. I have found, that when given a choice, students will work while sitting on the floor, standing at tables ,or even laying down. By having options, I will have the ability to help them find the best way to be successful.
They will be able to use the yoga ball at the table so they can bounce and wiggle but still sit quietly.
They can use the beanbag chairs to sit on the rug during instruction or while reading silently to themselves. The stools are another way for them to sit at the table and wiggle but still remain quiet so as not to distract other children. Because we are a third grade classroom, students are young enough that they do not know what works best for them. That is why I am asking for various options to help meet the needs of everyone in the room.
Some students need to keep their hands and fingers moving to help them focus. Students with ADHD have a lot of energy. If they have something like a fidget to move with their hands, it allows them to focus on the book they are reading, or the work they are doing. The fidgets chosen, like the water wiggles and loopeez permit the student to keep their hands busy but they are not noisy so they won't distract others in the classroom.
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