Active learning furniture has evolved in recent years to be more inclusive and easily integrated into early learning classrooms. Originally developed for children with sensory and regulation profiles to help better focus and learn in the classroom, these stools and seats are quickly becoming popular as flexible seating for all young learners.
Wobble stools, also known as active or balance stools, offer numerous benefits in early learning classrooms. These advantages cater to the physical, cognitive, and emotional needs of early learners, fostering an environment conducive to effective learning and development. Let's take a dip into the advantages of incorporating wobble stools into early learning classrooms. See how today's wobble stools can complement your school furniture in a way that benefits all your young learners.
1. Wobble stools help students concentrate
Wobble stools can support increased alertness, help activate the central nervous system with dynamic postural corrections, and promote increased blood circulation. They're great for helping to wake students up during that afternoon lull or helping others regulate after a busy, stimulating day. Stools like this Sprogs Kids Active Motion Stool are popular and feature just enough “wobble” to keep those bodies moving yet focused.
2. Moving more can increase relaxation
Believe it or not, wobble stools and active learning furniture help keep students relaxed by moving more. Energized and excited students in early learning classrooms can sometimes find it difficult to stay still and focused. There often becomes a need for fidgeting or movement. When these active learners use wobble stools, they can exert the slight movement needed to calm them. They can also benefit from the increased vestibular input that wobble stools provide, supporting relaxation.
3. Dynamic seating helps improve posture
Dynamic seating, like wobble stools, helps improve posture and core strength. Early learning students benefit from good posture wherever they sit to learn. Better posture leads to better body mechanics and ergonomics. It can also improve a student's overall capacity for learning by focusing their attention during the day.
4. Wobble stools can help meet IEP goals
While wobble stools are great for the general student population, some students in early learning may have IEP goals from their physical, speech, or occupational therapists that include alternative seating options. This could be to help with an executive function need, increase overall alertness level for better attention to tasks, or help address motor development. Having this kind of seating already present in the classroom not only enriches the classroom for everyone but also makes it inclusive to students who may pass through with specific needs or profiles.
5. Wobble stools help develop fine motor skills
Early childhood development often includes curriculum to support the development of gross and fine motor skills. Time spent on wobble stools can help develop postural muscles and proximal stability. Proximal stability is the stability of the muscles and joints closest to the body, like the shoulders, hips, and trunk. This then aids in the development of fine motor skills.
FAQs about modern wobble stools
Have more questions about the benefits of wobble stools for your early learning students? Explore some of these more common inquiries and expert responses.
How do I use wobble stools in the classroom?
Wobble stools are best integrated with other stationary seating options. Use them intermittently with your students as needed, maybe after recess or during a lesson that requires more focus. Students can then enjoy a variety of seating options for different energy levels and sensory needs. Introduce a few or outfit an entire early learning space with them!
Is a wobble stool worth it?
In short, yes! Wobble stools are worth integrating into early learning spaces to help regulate, refocus, and engage all levels of students. Blend them into a classroom's seating plan in a rotational or voluntary style setup. They provide student enrichment, regulate movement, and help students focus throughout the day on the tasks at hand.
What's the difference between a saddle stool and a wobble stool?
A saddle stool tips the pelvis forward into a more ergonomic position, whereas a wobble stool has a 360-degree movement surface. Both encourage active sitting and dynamic postural changes.
How versatile are wobble stools?
Wobble stools are versatile and can be used in various classroom settings, from group activities to individual workstations. Their lightweight and portable nature makes them easy to move and rearrange, supporting different teaching and learning styles.
Are wobble stools durable for long-term classroom use?
Wobble stools are often made from robust materials such as high-quality plastic, reinforced metal, or a combination of both, which ensures their ability to withstand frequent use by active preschool children. They're also designed to support various weights with resistance to common classroom wear and tear.
School Outfitters has the experts to help you develop your next seating plan
School Outfitters has an incredible team of representatives dedicated to helping you build the best learning spaces for your district. We streamline the design and quote process for you and can prioritize cost and comfort. Our knowledgeable furniture experts can answer any questions you have about the various wobble stool products we offer. Get a quote today, and let's build a premier early learning space together!
