Do you ever get tired sitting at your desk, even though you like your job and are interested in your work? Kids are no different. What if there was an option to the standard chair that will strengthen students' core muscles, allow oxygen to get to their brain, and keep them engage in learning!
My class consists of 50 (two classes of 25) 5th graders from culturally and economically diverse backgrounds.
We embrace our differences, and have created a classroom of mutual respect where creativity thrives and a growth mindset is the norm. We are a Title 1 school, nestled in a small community within a large city. For many of my students, our classroom is the only place where their future can feel like their reality rather than just a dream. For others, our classroom is an extension of their future and a place where they can let themselves dream and imagine their future. For all of us, our classroom is a the place where our ideas matter, opinions count, and where it is OK to think outside that box. We are a family.
My Project
Sitting is hard. Sitting still is even harder; especially for extended periods of time in stiff plastic chairs. Many of the tasks 5th graders are asked to do require long, uninterrupted seat time. The chairs are uncomfortable and as students struggle to get comfortable they slouch, put their heads on their arms which are stretched out on their desk, or fidget like there are ants in their pants. Stability balls and wobble chairs are better options than chairs. Because they're legless and backless, students must keep their feet on the floor and use their core muscles to sit up straight and not fall off. While students are using their core muscles, oxygen is flowing to their brain, keeping them alert and engaged in learning. And, if students do get antsy, the gentle bouncing doesn't interfere with their attention span or concentration, and it allows an easy, non-distracting outlet for the extra energy. Perfect for staying focused, staying awake and staying engaged in learning!
The donations will help me motivate my students and keep them engaged in learning.
These chair alternatives are not only good for students who find it difficult to sit still, they're good for all students because balancing stimulates both sides of the brain, allowing it to focus on learning, concentrate, and process new information. It will also help change my kids' perspective on the world as they will know the feeling, physically and metaphorically, of being on the ball!
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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 Ms. Ganz and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.