15 Ideas for Flexible Seating in the Classroom

Flexible seating arrangements are a great opportunity for students to learn to self-regulate, to focus while doing some physical activity, and to make your classroom more comfortable. Here are 15 unique examples of flexible seating for your classroom. Some examples are DIY, and others just require your online shopping cart! 

1. Tipi

This example is great for students that prefer sitting on the floor during independent reading time. Additionally, it is a good alternative if a student needs a more secluded, safe spot to collect their emotions; simply changing the physical environment may help them to calm down. 

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2. Trampoline

Trampolines are a flexible option for very active students as well as those learners who appreciate sensory integration. This is a more space-efficient alternative to yoga balls and a more comfortable option than sitting on the floor.  Simply stack them one on top of the other for easy storage. 

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3. Sit and Spin Toy

While this might not be the best option for every classroom environment/activity, it is a great option for students that like to self-soothe by spinning. This particular option might be best utilized during free time or read-aloud. These toys are also available in assorted colors to match your classroom. 

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4. Hammock Chair

A hammock chair is a comfortable, flexible seating option; it just takes some planning to install. These chairs hook into the ceiling or wall, keeping the floor open for easy cleaning. This soft seating is great for writing conferences or independent reading time. 

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5. Egg Chair

If your ceilings or walls aren’t well-suited to support a hammock chair, an egg chair is a great alternative. The hanger and chair are all one unit. Unlike traditional chairs, students have the option to twist, rock gently, or comfortably curl up inside. 

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6. Porch Swing

If you’d like flexible seating options for multiple students, installing a porch swing in your classroom is a fun option. Porch swings create a unique learning environment for partner work. Collaborative seating for kids can help promote creative thinking and thoughtful discussion.  

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7. Blow Up Hammock

Blow-up hammocks are awesome flexible seating for classrooms. They can be folded up and stored in small pouches. Also, nylon can be easily wiped off or sanitized. These hammocks are a great durable floor seating option for middle or high school students, with colors ranging from blue to hot pink. 

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8. Ergonomic Kneeling Chair

If your classroom includes a row of desks, but you still want to include flexible seating, this unique chair offers students several seating options in one! Students can sit, kneel and rock all while sitting at their traditional desks. 

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9. Outdoor Swings

If you’d like to offer more unique options to students, try installing playground swings in your classroom. These can be placed around the periphery or behind conventional desks. 

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10. Ergo Stools

This alternative seating option primarily functions as a regular stool but allows students to bounce slightly. This style of classroom seating is easy to move around and may not be as distracting as other options.  

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11. Crate Seats

If your school has extra milk crates available, flip them over and place a simple cushion on top to create seats! Students can also use their seats for storage at the end of the day. Additionally, move these crates around to create collaborative spaces. 

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12. Lap Desk

Lap desks are another easy way to create collaborative group seating without needing any “seats” per se. Students can cart their desks around the classroom with ease and sit anywhere they please. Each learner’s work and stationery can stay tucked neatly into the dividers on the sides. 

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13. Yoga Mat

Create alternative seating for classrooms with yoga mats! This student seating option is easy to store and provides students with a clearly defined space. Students can use this comfy seating throughout the day for activities, nap time, and more. 

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14. Futon Convertible Chair

This 3-in-1 flexible seating option provides options similar to a yoga mat, but with more cushioning. This futon can be a chair, chaise lounge, or bed. Unlike bean bag chairs, these pieces can also be pushed together into a couch. 

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15. Tire Seats

With just a little spray paint, some old tires, and some simple cushions, you can make your own flexible seating. Get your older learners involved by giving them a chance to paint their very own “seat” before leaving it to dry and adding a cushion on top. 

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