First grade students are easily inspired to try new things and love to incorporate play into their learning activities. They enter the classroom between the ages of 6 and 7 years old. Developmentally, these students are attracted to colored items and tools that intrigue the imagination. They are drawn to things that remind them of home and their personal interests.
These young learners are easily excited about having options within the classroom to help them feel more comfortable and to not feel like they have to conform to any set way of learning.
I like to offer a variety of places within the classroom to learn and offer students choices in their learning through specific learning areas.
After teaching this age group for so many years, I have changed my mindset and I believe offering even the youngest of learners options for learning is very important and makes their learning more meaningful.
My Project
As a teacher, I am changing my mindset of how a classroom has to look. I can envision students having seating choices around the room on soft cushioned seats or on soft couches that can be linked together to bring in a feeling of being home. These young students often like to lie down on the floor or on a cushioned comfy seat when reading a book or working on the Chromebook.
When I think about where I am comfortable reading, it should be the same for my students.
Students need this same space where they can relax and enjoy learning. The days of the hard ceramic chairs are fading. I want to create a fun, safe inviting space where my kids can come each day and be excited about learning. It is okay if they lie down while reading or choose to sit near a window today on a soft cushion. It is all about the learning and how these kids learn best.
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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