The Learning Spark

Looking for flexible seating ideas?  Here are some of my favorites! 1. Wobble Chairs When I think of flexible seating, the first thing I think of is the wobble chair!  My students love these. I have six of these at our "technology" center and six more at my reading table.  I also have a few extras that certain students use at their tables.  I think the 14 inch size is perfect for kinders.  If you're debating on sizes, I'd suggest to error on the smaller side.  It's nice for students to be able to have their feet planted firmly on the ground.  Even my 11 year old sits on this size just fine (although, 16 inch would work well for him too).  I like to purchase these at Amazon  because of all the color options (9 to choose from).  -But you can also get them in 3 colors from Lakeshore Learning . 2.  The Couch I just recently got a couch for my classroom and I LOVE it!  It's called the  Flex-Space Comfy Couch  fr...

It seems that today, more than ever, we are seeing more and more students with attention problems in our classrooms.  Here are some of my top tips for teaching students with ADHD-like symptoms. 1.  Seating Arrangement My students listen attentively to our "special visitor." Students have assigned places at the carpet and I carefully consider each spot.        Carefully consider the best place for these students to sit. I often like to have them sit right in the front row at the carpet.  There are usually fewer distractions for them to see from here and I can easily lean forward and gently tap them on the shoulder or knee when they need a little redirection. I have one little guy that shifts around and moves constantly...I placed him on the edge of one of my rows, which gives him a little more room to wiggle around.  I also assign places at our tables...I carefully think about who I want these kids to sit by.  Sitting them next to a ha...