"Please, sit straight with your bottom on the chair." "Can you please stop moving? It is very distracting." How many times have you heard teachers, parents and even classmates complain about kids that can't stay still. Can you take a moment to put yourself in their shoes...?
I teach 1st and 2nd grade students with special learning needs.
I serve students that have been diagnosed with ADD, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, within the Autistic spectrum, and other specific learning needs. My students' nervous system is still under development and asking them to sit still in many situations is unrealistic. Their nature is to be active and on top of that, you add some of these learning challenges.
My Project
With your help, it is my hope to create a classroom environment in which my students' special learning needs can be met using a variety of multi-sensory strategies and tools. Brain-based learning advocates such as Eric Jensen and Chris Biffle, one of the co-founders of Whole Brain Teaching, confirm that physical activity can actually enhance the learning process. Movement in the classroom through the use of balancing balls helps blood flow into the brain, consequently enhancing the ability to concentrate and focus. Many teachers had put into test the use of balancing balls in their classrooms and their testimonials confirm positive academic and physical impact in their students. Benefits such as increasing their ability to focus for longer periods of times, and maintaining appropriate behavior in the classroom by helping them "get the wiggles out."
Can you help me make a difference in the lives of my students?
This project is important to me because I believe that by adding balancing balls to the environment I will be providing another opportunity for my students to feel successful in their classroom. I want them to be able to use their natural strength and movement through the use of balancing chairs to help them experience learning in their own language. With your support, this can be possible. My students and I appreciate your support!
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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. Martinez and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.