Optimizing Kinesthetic Classroom Equipment

Stacey Shoecraft

Bobby Sommers

Our Story

Stacey Shoecraft Bobby Sommers

Why should you incorporate movement in the classroom?

• Research shows that many students are kinesthetic learners; so incorporating movement supports their learning style.

• Key Outcomes from Stacey’s classroom

• What we’ve noticed. Personal stories from our classroom

What are brain breaks and why should you use them?

Quick breaks allow students to step away from their learning, have a mental break, and then re-engage with the learning process.

• Bathroom break• Mental break• Transitions

Go Noodlewww.gonoodle.com

Procedures

How to use equipment (SAFETY IS KEY)

Set clear expectations for behaviors at stations

-What does it look like? What does it feel like?

Creation and implementation of classroom rules -Allow students to have ownership if possible

-Tie in closely to school wide rules

Procedures

Keeping it together-Folder system-1 to 1 iPads-Quick activities or games at each station

*Don’t forget the early finisher

Resources and Activities

Use what you have. • Center activities• Review stations• Group projects• Whole class instruction• Individual activities• Teacher Pay Teacher or Pinterest (www.pinterest.com)• Flash cards

What types of activities or resources do you already have that would support movement in the classroom?

Large Equipment

-Learning Desks

-Stationary bikes

-Yoga balls at every desk

-Bosu balance trainer

-Learning ladder

Smaller Equipment -Duck walkers-Balance discs-Jump Ropes-Small basketball hoop-Number pad -Large dice-Yoga mats-Wobble seats-Stretch bands-Toss and catch-Scarves-Hula hoops-Stomp and catch

Maximize Your Effectiveness

Where to Get the Funding?

• Student engagement

• Grant writing

• Donations

• PTO

• Admin

• Community involvement

• Be creative!

How to get started? Whole classroom

How to get started?

ABL lab

STRETCH!

How to get started?

Movement cart

How to get started?

Movement cart

How can you see your school utilizing movement in the classroom?

Activities

Activities

Activities

Classroom ManagementKeys and Tools

-Jump Castle Theory - provide time for adjustment/acclimation to equipment

-Egg of calmness

-Brain Break - student chosen/lead

-Verbal Cues

Check your stations,

RESET, and ROTATE

Classroom ManagementKeys and Tools

Behavior expectations

• Self evaluation

• Classroom Dojo and Edmodo

Challenges:

• the hyperactive student

• off task behavior

• give opportunity for success, redirection when necessary, reflection of choices and actions

Wrap it up!

• Walk and Talk/Think, pair, share

• Circle up