Flexible Seating for a Student-Centered Classroom!
My students need flexible seating options for the classroom. We would love to use a variety of options: floor rugs, clipboards, stools, and yoga balls.
"You mean I can sit anywhere I want?!" These were the words from my kinders last school year when I allowed them to "pick" their own work space. Each year my classroom is filled with an average of 22-25 kindergarteners that are full of life and eager to learn.
Now days in kindergarten we are holding pretty high expectations, especially for five and six year old kiddos.
Our school has six kindergarten classrooms with an average of 23 students per class. We are a Title 1 school. Many of our students do not have many learning opportunities outside of the the classroom. My goal as a teacher is to provide them with the learning environment that allows them to feel safe, wanted, and take ownership of their learning.
My Project
Flexible seating in my kindergarten classroom will allow for a more student-centered classroom. Flexible seating gives students a choice in what kind of learning space works best for them. Not all students learn and work the same way.
Flexible seating encourages movement, and let's face it, no one likes to sit in a chair all day long.
Some students prefer to stand at their tables, others need constant movement while sitting, and others do best while laying on the floor, using a clipboard. My goal as a teacher is to allow for all students to work up to their best potential and take responsibility in their learning.
Last year, I implemented wiggle stools into my classroom. These stools were a huge hit! They allowed for movement while students were working. Students also enjoyed sitting on the floor around the classroom to complete their work. My students seemed happier and much more engaged with these seating options. This year I am looking for additional seating options for my students.
Alternative/flexible seating options allow for students to spread out and enjoy their own personal space.
Nearly all 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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