Benefits of Flexible Seating in the Classroom

Flexible seating also allows for some movement. Many students focus better when they can move freely, lean, stand, lounge or rock. Movement boosts oxygen flow to the brain, so students remain more alert during longer lessons. 

2. Better Collaboration 

Flexible seating can be positioned to facilitate collaborative learning in the classroom. Whether working together in small groups or as a class, students can have discussions without moving heavy desks. 

Classrooms conducive to collaboration are beneficial. For example, Wi-Fi-enabled classrooms allow children to share documents in real time and access helpful online resources. Flexible seating takes things a bit further by allowing students to communicate and brainstorm together.

3. Improved Communication Skills 

Choosing where to sit requires open communication between students and teachers, which teaches students skills like higher-order thinking, problem-solving and conflict resolution. Students also learn about patience and taking turns. Interactive group work assignments also teach children how to communicate better with classmates. 

4. Sensory Need Fulfillment

Flexible seating can be beneficial for students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) because it stimulates their sense of touch. These students become less disruptive because they can use their excess energy and move freely while focusing on tasks. This makes it easier for them to process information. 

5. Better Physical Health 

Traditional desks may lead to poor posture and physical health concerns. With flexible seating, children can move around during lessons to help maintain their physical well-being. It also helps support metabolism, burn calories and build core strength. 

Some studies show that physical activity contributes to higher academic performance, improved behavior and better health. You can also try various simple in-class activities to encourage movement and boost performance. 

6. Creating a Sense of Community 

Sitting at traditional desks may make students feel possessive of their school supplies. Flexible seating encourages students to share spaces, try new areas and take turns with different seating options. Students can learn how to work productively with others and feel closer to their classmates.

7. Enhanced Degree of Student Control and Choice 

Flexible seating gives students a choice in their education. Choosing where to sit can empower students and allow them to feel like they have some control over their environment. With flexible seating options, students can choose a seat where they'll be able to learn best and stay engaged. Their ability to choose how, where and with whom they sit also influences their higher-order thinking skills. 

Tips for Teachers Implementing a Flexible Seating System 

Here are six strategies to help students focus in the classroom: 

• Make the area suitable for students: Before choosing flexible seating options, consider how they can enhance the learning experience for your students, accommodate the subject and suit you as a teacher. It might help to ask parents and students which environments and seating options help them focus best. You may then opt for a mixture of the most preferred options. 
• Start small: If you're implementing flexible seating on a budget, test it in a small area of the classroom rather than going all out. Let students take turns in the area and monitor its effectiveness for them. You can then gradually add more variety. 
• Establish rules and guidelines first: Inform students of the basic rules for using flexible seating areas. Explain to them its purpose and the importance of sharing and collaborating in this space. This creates order in the classroom when flexible seating areas are first implemented. 
• Encourage students to try different locations: Ask students to try out different seating options during the first few weeks of implementation. This allows them to experiment with which areas help them focus best before they get comfortable with just the first option they try. 
• Tailor lesson plans to the new layout: Make sure the furniture you choose complements the lessons you plan to give, and understand that you may need to tweak lessons to match the new environment. For example, you might need to walk around the classroom to monitor students' focus in the new area. You might also prefer rugs and floor cushions if the class involves many out-loud reading sessions. Similarly, seating options that allow for better group discussions can be useful in a class that requires more group work. 
• Make improvements over time: Monitor the effectiveness of the new seating options and ask students how they feel about it. Do they feel more focused? Are there things they wish the area had to make them enhance their focus? Try to implement these changes to improve the flexible learning environment. 

Enhance the Classroom Environment With Student Planners 

A flexible seating system can be a great addition to the classroom to enhance student engagement and focus. If you're looking for another way to help students stay on-task, Success by Design is a company that develops various high-quality student planners to prepare students for adulthood. Our planners teach students to organize, plan and complete tasks so they may excel academically. 

Students can use these planners to record notes, set goals, schedule due dates and outline assignments. This may help them stay engaged in their learning environment. To learn more, browse our planners with a purpose or contact one of our friendly professionals!