A Peek Into My Classroom... Alternative Seating!

When a student or parent walks into my classroom for the first time I want them to feel welcomed.  I want them find my classroom inviting, comfortable, resourceful and organized.  I truly believe all of these things contribute to a positive learning environment.

Today I would like to share with you some of the alternative seating that I currently have in my classroom.  Each student has his or her own desk and chair.  However, I allow them to move to a more comfortable spot during the day to complete their independent work, work with a partner, to read, etc.

At the beginning of the year, I put my student names in alphabetical order.  Each student is given that number.  They put the number on their assignments, it is the same textbook number they receive, we use their number to make groups and last but not least they use these numbers for alternative seating.

Students with even numbers may sit somewhere in the class on the even number days on the calendar and the students with odd numbers may sit somewhere else in the room on odd number days on the calendar.  This prevents too many students from gathering together in one spot, cuts down on who gets what pillow or chair, and everyone gets their fair share of time away from their desk.  All students come to a large rug area twice a day for mini-lessons and/or read-alouds.

I have several benches, rug areas, comfortable chairs, stools, and many pillows (sewn by my mom).  The alternative seating is spread throughout my room.

 

I currently have an owl theme in my classroom, but will be changing it this upcoming school year.  I am on the lookout for some new seating.  I will be revealing my new classroom here in August.

I hope you enjoyed another peek into my classroom.  Now, I need your help!  What kind of alternative seating do you have in your room? Do you have a system for who may sit where and when?  Please share your ideas so I can make some changes for next year!