By Carla Dabau
See the first part of the blog series to see how to create a comfortable space for teachers.
As teachers, we all know that learning is not a one-size-fits-all process. Students come to us with diverse backgrounds, learning styles, and needs, and our classrooms should reflect that diversity. Yet, when it comes to classroom furniture, many schools still stick to the traditional rows of desks and chairs that may not serve every student equitably. Imagine how much more engaging and comfortable a learning environment could be if students had a choice in how and where they sit.
I’m going to ask you a question: Why, as adults, do we enjoy reading a book in our armchair by the window or working on our laptops on the couch, but in schools, students are expected to sit in stiff chairs and rigid desks for hours on end?
If we crave flexibility in our own lives, it makes sense that students would benefit from the same freedom. That’s where flexible seating and ergonomic furniture come into play. And the best part? Transforming your classroom can be affordable and doesn't need to happen overnight. Even small, thoughtful adjustments can make a huge difference in classroom comfort, focus, and engagement.
The Power of Choice in Seating
Flexible seating is more than just a trend; it’s a way to acknowledge the different ways students learn and feel comfortable. Offering students choices in where they sit, whether on a stool, a yoga ball, a bench, or even on a mat, gives them a sense of ownership over their learning. They can find the spot where they feel most focused and relaxed, which can significantly impact their ability to concentrate and stay engaged in lessons.
Studies have shown that flexible seating arrangements reduce fidgeting, boost student collaboration, and foster a sense of community. According to Sisson and Whitcomb (2020), students who had the option to choose their seating were better able to focus during tasks. Similarly, research by the American Psychological Association found that flexible seating improved not only students’ academic performance but also their social behavior. When students are comfortable, they’re more likely to stay engaged and participate in group activities.
Ergonomic Furniture: Comfort for All
In addition to flexible seating options, ergonomics should be a consideration in classroom design. Ergonomic furniture isn’t just for offices; it plays a critical role in reducing physical strain for both students and teachers. Adjustable desks and chairs that accommodate individual body dimensions can improve posture, reduce back pain, and increase comfort during long periods of sitting.
A study in the Journal of Applied Ergonomics highlights the benefits of ergonomic furniture, showing that it can significantly reduce musculoskeletal discomfort. For teachers, ergonomic chairs with lumbar support can prevent fatigue and help maintain energy levels throughout the day. The best part is schools don’t need to overhaul their classrooms with expensive, high-end furniture. There are many affordable options for ergonomic seating, and teachers can start small, upgrading pieces bit by bit. Stay here, I got you. Keep reading for affordable ideas.
Budget-Friendly Solutions: Big Impact, Small Investment
We all know that school budgets are tight, but transforming your classroom seating doesn’t have to be expensive. You can get creative with the resources you have or look for affordable solutions in places you might not expect.
- Secondhand Furniture Stores or Facebook Marketplace: You’d be amazed at the bargains you can find on gently used furniture. Look for yoga balls, stools, or even old wooden crates that can be repurposed into benches or creative seating solutions. Thrift stores and garage sales are also great places to pick up low-cost items. Having lived in the Netherlands, I’ve often visited these types of stores and genuinely enjoy the experience every time I go.
- Community Donations: Reach out to local businesses or parents who may have unused furniture lying around. Oftentimes, gyms, offices, or even yoga studios are looking to get rid of things like exercise balls or ergonomic chairs. You could also post on community boards or social media, asking for donations of specific items.
- Nature-Inspired Options: Bring the outdoors in! Logs or tree stumps make excellent seating choices and can be a great way to connect students to nature, sparking creativity and focus. Ask local tree-removal companies if they have any leftover wood pieces you could repurpose for free seating. You can sand down and varnish logs to make them classroom-friendly.
- Affordable Online Stores: Websites like Amazon, Wayfair, or IKEA offer budget-friendly options for seating like yoga balls, adjustable stools, and ergonomic desk chairs. Many schools are also eligible for discounts through bulk purchases or education programs, so check with your school district about those options.
(Editor's Note: Ensure you properly sanitize all repurposed items, especially upholstered furniture.)
The key is to start small. Maybe this year, you add a couple of yoga balls or some cushions. Next year, swap out a few chairs for stools or benches. Over time, these small changes can add up to create a more comfortable and engaging classroom without the pressure of a large up-front cost.
Flexible Seating in Action: Ideas for Every Classroom
We’ve explored various types of furniture and where to find it, but now let’s focus on how to effectively implement flexible seating in your classroom. Here are a few easy ways to introduce these concepts without feeling overwhelmed:
- Group seating with stools and mats: Create a cozy area for group work with clipboards, mats, and stools of different heights. This allows students to collaborate easily while sitting in a more relaxed, comfortable position.
- Individual seating with yoga balls and chairs: Yoga balls encourage students to use their core muscles, which can improve posture. They are particularly beneficial for students with ADHD, as the constant, gentle movement helps them maintain focus. Pair them with wobble cushions or soft floor mats for an even more dynamic seating option. Wobble cushions also provide sensory input that can aid concentration, making them another great choice for students who benefit from physical movement while working.
- Mixed seating with natural elements: Incorporating tree stumps or wooden benches into your seating arrangement not only offers a new sensory experience but can also bring a calming, nature-inspired vibe to the classroom; and you can get it for free!
Ultimately, creating a classroom that reflects the diverse needs of students doesn’t have to mean a total redesign or a massive budget. Try thinking about your favorite spot at home. What makes it so comfortable? Can you bring a bit of that comfort into your classroom? Even small changes can make a world of difference in how your students feel and perform.
Carla Dabau: I am an educator with extensive experience teaching in diverse curricula, including the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP) in the Netherlands, as well as the national curricula of the United States and Spain. I recently embarked on my next adventure, moving to Switzerland to continue my educational journey. Over the years, I have developed a passion for designing enriching learning environments that blend educational philosophies with practical classroom strategies. My teaching practice focuses on fostering innovation, nurturing inclusivity and creativity, and implementing effective classroom management techniques through positive discipline. In addition to my teaching experience, I hold a postgraduate degree in designing, managing, and organizing educational spaces, officially qualifying me as a designer of learning environments. My teaching practice focuses on fostering mental health and well-being, nurturing inclusivity and creativity, and creating impactful learning spaces that support positive discipline and effective classroom management.
See https://about.me/carladp for more. Connect with Carla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carladabaup/
