Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Alternative Seating for the Classroom


(1) T-Stool

For kids who; tip on their regular classroom chair, typically don't work with their feet on the floor, have a hard time paying attention, are frequently tired, wigglers who need frequent movement.

What does it do? The T-Stool is a one-footed stool that provides active seating to the user. Kids using a T-Stool need both feet on the floor for balance, which promotes a grounded position for optimal learning.


(2) Camp Chair

For kids who; rock back and forth, have a hard time knowing where to sit or how much space to take up, have difficulty orienting their bodies while sitting on the rug, have a hard time with personal space.

What does it do? The camp chair shows a child where to sit, which direction to face, provides sensory input (like a hug) and allows for some movement if the child tips back and sits in a "V" shape.



(3) Wiggle Cushions

For kids who; work best while moving, need more core support, respond well to tactile input and interesting textures.

What does it do? The wiggle cushion is partially filled with air so that the user will need to use their core muscles to stabilize themselves on the cushion. It can be used on the rug, or atop the child's regular classroom chair. The cushion has a smooth side and a bumpy side to provide a variety of sensory experiences. The wiggle cushion also works well with a small weighted blanket over the child's lap for stronger sensory input.



(4) Bean Bag Chair 

For kids who; need a safe place to chill out, seek out physical contact frequently, respond well to deep pressure, or seek experiences where their body is squeezed.

What does it do? Being in a bean bag is like being enveloped in a hug. Young children who exhibit disruptive or dangerous behaviors at preschool might require frequent "breaks". These kids may be too overstimulated to be held by an adult at this time, and a bean bag can work as a great alternative. The adult can sit beside the bean bag and wait until the child is ready to repair the situation. Of course, you can also seat a wiggly child in a bean bag for circle time, or book corner etc. if the space is big enough to accommodate for the chair. 

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