A strong body makes the mind strong. (Thomas Jefferson)
I hope to merge the two with the use of yoga balls instead of chairs in the classroom.
My 20-22 students are a very diverse group of great second graders in Georgia.
Some of my students have special needs, some of them are still learning English, and most of my students qualify for free or reduced price lunch. Several of my students are diagnosed with ADHA and ADD. But, they are all wonderful and so eager to learn. We work in various settings through out the day like whole group, small group and independent work. I try to avoid sitting too long in one place. The use of the yoga balls will give their bodies constant engagement of muscles. Research shows that engaged bodies allow students to focus on academics.
My Project
I would love to give my students every opportunity to be successful. Yoga balls can be one more tool to use in the classroom to promote success. Research shows movement can keep the mind focused. The addition of 10 yoga balls will be one more tool I can use to engage my students. My students will use the yoga balls on a alternating schedule. They will use the balls at their desks, in small group work and in whole group activities. Using the yoga balls will provide an outlet for the constant movement my 2nd graders need, while keeping their minds engaged. My students will benefit in additional ways from the yoga balls. It has been shown that penmanship improves when students use a yoga ball. My students will also be gaining a stronger core and better posture. Another side benefit from using yoga balls and not chairs will be increased time on task and less behavior disruptions.
I can't wait to see my students using the yoga balls.
The yoga balls will allow my students to stay focused while doing what comes naturally, moving.
My goal is to have students with stronger minds and stronger bodies at the end of the year.
More than three‑quarters of 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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