My students need 15 chair balls to increase blood flow and to have the freedom to move when working, which will increase their ability to focus and stay engaged.
I teach special education skills. While dealing with certain challenges that Autism can bring, we have fun and grow every day. At the end of the school year, I want my students to be independent and make progress on their specific educational goals.
"Some children may need a behavioral approach, whereas other children may need a sensory approach," Temple Grandin, autistic activist.
A typical day in my classroom is full of fun, exciting, and I'm always trying to create engaging ways to learn. Learning in a traditional classroom where students sit quietly and work at their desks in standard chairs all day is not effective. By changing from chairs to chair balls, students will improve behaviorally and academically.
My Project
Too often, I hear teachers asking students to "Sit down, be quiet, and sit still." My Skills class is the complete opposite. We play, we move around, and we are expressive. I give my students as many opportunities as possible to move around throughout the classroom so they do not become restless. Their greatest difficulty throughout the day is when it is time to focus on independent work at their desks. Chair balls will provide students the opportunity to wiggle while they work, which will lead to better behavior, better focus for academics, and improvements in posture.
Many studies have been performed on the effectiveness of chair balls in the classrooms.
Chair balls provide students with the freedom to wiggle while they work. Studies have also shown that when students sit on chair balls, both sides of their brains are engaged in keeping their bodies centered on the balls. When the brain is stimulated, it's more focused on learning. Chair balls can meet their demands for releasing extra energy and fidgeting.
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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. Hall and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.