When students enter a classroom we hope they find it to be a welcoming learning space. The physical environment is often the first thing students see and can set the stage, from the outset, for students to feel comfortable, at ease and ready to learn. When considering seating the phrase "one size does NOT fit all" definitely applies. Chairs and desks are often the same size and height--with no available alternative options. This is perhaps one of the most easily remedied elements of the environment. When thinking about setting up your classroom next year it makes sense to anticipate and plan for variety of student seating needs and preferences.
Some of the following ideas may help the year kick off with a better “fit.”
- Consider asking your Occupational Therapist assigned to your school to consult on how the chairs and desks “fit” your students and if she/he has any recommendations
- Connect with building services to see if they can lower or raise chair/desk height as indicated
- Scour the building for chairs and/or desks that are a better fit for your students
- Consider requesting, purchasing or scrounging for alternative seating such as standing desks, bean bag seats, ball chairs, sofa’s, etc. Learning does not always have to happen at a desk!
- Explore your school district’ warehouse for alternative seating, you never know what you will find!
Images resources:
Bean Bag: (Target)
Standing Desk: (Therapro)
Folding Chairs: Your local garage sale or your backyard shed!