Do you find that your students struggle to sit still? If they are constantly shifting position or rocking back and forth on their chair legs, then it's probably time to consider alternative seating options. Although it may seem counterintuitive, movement can help students learn better. Repetitive motion provides sensory input that their bodies may need in order to free their minds to focus on the lesson. There is a wide variety of sensory-friendly seating. How do you know which to choose for your students?

What Type of Flexible Seating To Choose

Start by identifying your students' learning needs, keeping in mind that each will differ. Is the child a sensory seeker or sensory avoider? Do they have ADHD or low muscle tone? If you are not sure, consult with an occupational therapist or physical therapist for guidance. (Our team is also here to help!) Don't be afraid to have several types of seating available in the classroom, and let kids rotate through the choices depending on their needs.

A good rule of thumb is to take some time to observe what types of seating a student gravitates towards now, such as their chair, the rug or a cushion. This can give you a starting point for what type of alternative seating to offer them. A child who seeks vestibular input may benefit from a Wobble Chairorball chair, whereas one who is over-responsive to, or has poor integration of, vestibular input might experience anxiety from an unstable surface. Remember, you also need to consider the needs of your classroom as a whole when choosing types of seating. Keep reading for our breakdown of flexible seating categories, based on the input they provide.

Comfort Chair

Some kids like the sensation of sinking into their seat. Bean bag chairs that are filled with foam or soft pellets conform to the shape of your body, helping students feel secure. Keep in mind that this type of seating, while beneficial, is often best reserved for cozy corners, a reading center or other quiet zone in the classroom, because it may not boost focus the way other alternative seating options can.

Stable Support

There are times when a hard, stable seat is actually what is most needed. Although standard chairs might seem to fit the bill, sometimes they don't provide the same sense of stability as more form-fitting ones. Something like the Educube Chairis perfect for those cases, because it offers students a sturdy surface to sit on and give them clear boundaries from the chair's higher sides.The Surf Portable Lap Desk is another great option for a sturdy floor chair with a desk surface.

Sit and Stand

Whichever flexible seating options you choose for your classroom, remember to have your students take breaks from sitting! Movement breaks increase blood flow throughout the body and promote better learning. Incorporate short sensory breaks during the course of the day so that students remain engaged and at their peak learning level.

Explore our robust range of sensory seatingoptions to find the right ones for your classroom's needs. Follow it up with inspiration from our freeTake a Break Activity Guide!