My group of kiddos is a sweet group! They all have huge hearts and are so considerate of each other. As I grow as a teacher, I can't help but notice that my kids need unstructured playtime to learn social behaviors and expectations. They are always happiest when they get to explore and discover new things. I want to create that environment for them in our classroom. The kids love to move, create new things, and share with the class what they are learning.
My Project
I can't emphasize enough how important it is for my students to have movement throughout their day!
I notice all day how wiggly they are and how much they love to move.
They will work hard for a brain break or for some time to run outside. This just motivates me more to discover what can get them this motivated in their learning time.
I have tried out different types of flexible seating in the classroom. My students sit in ball and crate chairs, which they love. They also have wobble chairs from a previous project.
I'd like to expand their flexible seating options with yoga mats, seating discs, and a classroom teepee where they can escape to a magical place to focus on reading.
If we can get these items in the classroom, I plan to allow the students to freely choose when and where they get to use them! For example, if it's time for math centers, I will allow two students to choose a center tub to take to a spot of their choosing. They might want to sit on the seating discs. This will allow them to bounce or wiggle while they work. I've seen how much it benefits students to have some flexibility when they're working on a task. If they are distracted, uncomfortable, or fidgety, they are more likely to be disengaged with their task.
The teepee will be the perfect place for reading and working on math assignments.
I want to create a safe haven for my students where they can feel privileged to come in every morning to learn.
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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. Carter and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
