My students need a pedal bike station in their classroom to provide a safe place for gross motor movement to help alleviate anxiety by providing a distraction, rerouting circuits, improving resilience, and building brain resources.
This August, 25 eight and nine-year-old students, filled with hope, will arrive at my classroom. Some of the students have been identified as less likely to succeed due to their constant need to move and lack of ability to focus. These students are of different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds and need an equal chance at the amazing possibilities in life. Students that struggle to achieve due to learning differences and extreme anxiety will find safety and nurture in my room. Classroom furnishing and physical environment should also advance to match students’ current needs.
At my suburban school, the students are sitting in desks that are similar, if not the same as in the 1950s.
Desks and chairs that restrict movement. These students need a classroom environment that will help them pursue their dreams.
My Project
Many studies have shown significant relationships between both physical activity and fitness with improved cognitive and executive functioning. Active seating can greatly benefit students by burning more calories, using up excess energy, improving metabolism, increasing motivation and engagement, creating a better oxygen flow to the brain, and improving core strength and overall posture.
I have personally witnessed students with ADHD, including my own child, feeling extremely stressed and emotionally overwhelmed by the inability to move and wiggle during class.
Incorporating kinesthetic designed seating into my classroom for students will be a positive influence on their health and well-being. All of the students in the third-grade class will have the opportunity to pedal throughout the school day.
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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. N. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
