My students need a seat that will help them focus on the task at hand. Some children simply cannot sit still in a chair so these alternative forms will help them - and me!
I live in a remote, small, but beautiful town on the northern California coast. Once the lumber mill shut down, the only industries left were fishing (somewhat) and tourism. Because of that, the district budget for "extras" is basically non-existent. In fact, for many children, the school environment is better than their homes.
Children at the elementary level, between ages 4-10, need to wiggle - to "shake their wiggles out." Finally, school furniture manufacturers and educators have realized this and alternative ways of sitting in the classroom have been created to address this stage of development.
What a relief for some children when they can sit on a ball, or sit on the floor with pillows, or sit on a stool that rotates. So often, children don't even realize they're moving! My project will include those alternative seating choices to facilitate better focus, less distractions, and more success!
My Project
So often in the past, I've found myself constantly nagging at children to "sit down," "quit tipping your chair," or "sit straight." I'm thrilled that schoolrooms are now being equipped with ways to help those little wigglers get their squirming satisfied and at the same time, get their tasks done.
Special stools and inflated balls with five legs are the perfect solution to lessen restlessness and improve focus while the children learn.
"Wobble" stools allow that freedom to move somewhat without tipping over. Likewise, the balls are sturdy, lightweight and can easily be carried to different places in the classroom.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Douglas and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
