Bright Ideas: Alternative Seating

I am beyond thrilled to join  Bright Ideas Link Up this month.  It is so refreshing to see what works in other classrooms and you can be sure I will be taking notes on super tips for next year!


Throughout the years, I have taught primary grades and also have been the inclusion class where students with IEP's have been in my room with the support of another teacher.

I have noticed that more and more students have difficulty paying attention.  I have students with sensory integration, ADHD, and ASD.  I have first grade students who just can't sit still.  I have learned that students need different things than they did 18 years ago when I started teaching.


This year I have jumped in with both feet to find alternatives to the traditional desk and chair that most students spend the majority of their school day in.  I have always had my students moving and actively engaged, but they still had a hard time sitting during instruction.


Stuents have the opportunity to sit on the carpet.  This usually occurs at Ipads, Read to Self, Read to Partner and with Math Centers in addition to whole group instruction.



I was introduced to stability balls several years ago by an OT who serviced one of my students with sensory integration.  It was always in the back of my mind, and this year I took the plunge and received a class set of balls through Donors Choose. 


Most students are able to focus more as they are able to get their wiggles out with the movement the balls offer.  I have to say the balls are not a fix all.  At times, I have switched students to a chair and students have the opportunity to in the morning to switch a ball for chair for the day. 


These are a few of the ways by students are able to work through out the day.  I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences. If you enjoyed this BRIGHT IDEA, please consider following me on BLOGLOVIN' or FACEBOOK for more tips and ideas. 

For more Bright Ideas from 100 other bloggers, please browse through the link up below and choose a topic or grade level that interests you.  Thanks for visiting!