A one-size-fits-all approach used to be the standard when it came to classroom seating.
Now, it’s no longer just about providing a chair to sit on. In today’s classroom, it’s about creating an environment that promotes engagement, comfort and productivity.
The right classroom seating can help students focus, improve learning and make collaboration easy among their peers and teachers.
Let’s walk you through some tips for choosing the best classroom seating for your learning space.
1. Ergonomics
Comfort is key when it comes to classroom seating. Students spend long hours sitting at their desks, and poorly designed chairs can lead to discomfort and even health issues. Prioritizing ergonomics in your seating selection will help promote good posture and overall well-being among students. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Height: Sitting in a chair that’s the wrong height can be detrimental to both a student’s academic performance and health. That’s why choosing the right chair height is essential for creating an ergonomic and comfortable learning environment. Need help determining what chair height is needed for your grade level? Check out our chair and desk height guide!
- Lumbar Support: Look for chairs that provide adequate lumbar support to maintain the natural curvature of the spine. Proper lumbar support reduces the risk of back pain and discomfort, helping students stay focused and attentive during class.
- Contoured Seats: Chairs with contoured seats like our Cantilever and 4-Legged Sconnie Chairs distribute the student’s weight evenly, reducing pressure on the thighs and enhancing comfort during extended periods of sitting. One feature to look for in classroom chairs is the waterfall seat design, as shown in our Sconnie Chairs. This seat design slopes slightly downward to relieve pressure on the back of the thighs, increases support to relieve pressure behind the knees and improves blood circulation in the lower limbs.
- Flexible Back/Seat: Opting for a chair with a flexible back and seat like our Sconnie Chairs will help promote natural body movement, improving overall health and learning. Our Cantilever Sconnie Chairs not only have a flexible back but have a unique feature where the seat surface tilts forward when the student is working at their desk. This opens the angle of the hips and aligns the spine in the correct posture. The chair shell also tilts whenever the student leans back, effectively relieving built-up tension.
2. Durability and maintenance
We all know that classroom seating is subject to constant use and wear. Because of this, it’s essential to choose chairs that are durable and can withstand the demands of a busy educational environment. Look for chairs made from high-quality materials, ensuring they will hold up well over time. Our Sconnie Chairs have several features that make them a durable seating choice, including:
- Dual support channels and heavy-duty seat brackets for extra strength
- Textured poly shells resistant to scratching, fading, chipping and denting
- A “wall-saver” design to protect walls and tables from damage
- Protective glide covers and plastic guard on our Cantilever Sconnie Chairs that prevent scratching of surfaces, including when stacked on tables
With everyday use, you should also consider chairs that are easy to clean and maintain. The unique ribless design on our Sconnie Chairs makes it easy for both janitorial staff and students to clean.
3. Flexible options
Flexible seating options are becoming increasingly popular in classrooms and it’s clear why. Studies show that offering flexible seating can:
- Increase student engagement and learning
- Promote collaborative learning and improve peer relationships
- Provide an environment that reflects the students’ different learning styles
Here’s how you can incorporate flexible seating:
- Classroom Layout: Start by rethinking the traditional classroom setup. Instead of rows of desks facing the teacher, consider arranging furniture in different areas, such as cozy corners or collaboration zones!
- Choose a Variety of Seating Options: Offer a diverse range of seating options to cater to different preferences and learning styles. Some possible choices include:
- Four-position Seating: Offer students the luxury of four-position seating with our Sconnie Chairs, which gives them the flexibility to choose their preferred sitting style.
- Soft Seating: Ideal for creating a comfortable and relaxed space for reading or group discussions. Fomcore’s Lily Pad Ottoman is the perfect choice – created with high-density foam for ultimate comfort and durability. Add on the Lily Cart for easy storage and flexibility.
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- Standing Desks: Encourage students to stand while working, which can increase alertness and productivity. Check out our Elevate Desks for a variety of sit-to-stand options.
- Rotation System: If you have limited seating options or a large class, consider implementing a rotation system where students take turns using different seating choices. This gives everyone an opportunity to experience different setups.
4. Style
While comfort and functionality are paramount, the aesthetic appeal of classroom seating should not be overlooked. Choose chairs that complement the overall classroom design and contribute to a positive and welcoming learning environment. Our modern-looking Sconnie Chairs are available in six colors, making it easy to match the style of your space.
Ready to upgrade your classroom seating?
The right classroom seating goes beyond just providing a place to sit. It’s about making sure students are comfortable enough to thrive, collaborate and reach their full potential. Reach out to our experts today and discover how our Sconnie Chairs and other seating options can help create a dynamic and student-centric learning space.