Having the right chairs in a preschool classroom will help growing learners feel secure and comfortable as they work independently, participate in a small group activity, or enjoy a meal time. But matching a chair to the right table is harder than it looks: when shopping online or out of a catalog, like most customers do, it can be difficult to tell if a chair will fit under a desired table. Do you want chairs with arms or no arms?Stackable or not stackable? What about wobble seats or flexible seating?
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One of the most common reasons for chair returns is that they weren’t the right fit - either for the tables they were used with, or for the children who used them. To ensure the chairs you're considering meet state licensing or quality rating guidelines, be sure to check what is required in your environment. Choosing the correct chair size will save you time and money.
We can help you avoid these headaches and save money with a simple guide to selecting the best chair for your classroom.
How to determine the right chair size
Signs that children are in the wrong sized seat can include swinging feet, constant fidgeting, slouching, or sitting incorrectly in the seat. If chairs aren’t fitted to the children who use them, those children are at risk for discomfort, which could lead to lack of focus and classroom disruptions.
You can follow a few general rules to buying the right sized chair:
- The child’s feet should lie flat on the floor when they sit all the way back in the chair. When a child’s feet dangle, the child can fidget, grow uncomfortable and generally disrupt the learning environment for not only that child but the children around them. It’s just like an adult who is sitting on a barstool and has their legs dangling, their feet start to go numb and their legs start to go numb over time, too. The same thing happens for children, they grow uncomfortable and then restless.
- The child’s knees should be at a 90 degree angle when sitting with their back in the chair.
- The seat of the chair should be 7”-8” from the underside of the table. This allows children to comfortably fit their legs underneath and rest their elbows on the top of the table.
For a helpful chart for chair and table heights, click here. Remember: children with special rights may require alternative chair and table solutions that are specific to their needs. Talk with your supervisor before purchasing special equipment.
For a child who is fidgety in their seat – what can a teacher do?
Some children need not just the comfort of their chair, but also need movement to concentrate, which is why flexible seating is so important. Flexible seating options are a popular way to help students get the sensory inputs they seek, so they can better focus. When considering alternative seating options, remember to factor in the child’s developmental level in addition to his or her age. Some schools have guidelines for how and when flexible seating can be used in a classrooms, so we recommend checking with administrators before purchasing.
Should I choose chairs with arms or no arms?
For children first learning to back up to a chair and sit down in it, arms provide a sense of security and help guide the child’s bottom into the chair. The arms alleviate their fear of slipping off the side and down. We recommend using chairs with arms for children still learning to walk with confidence, or who just need a little extra support when getting into a chair.
How does furniture change as age progresses?
As they age, children become more independent in their environment. More control, more influence, the ability to make modifications and the ability to manage their environment. Seating options should grow as the children grow. We suggest having different sized chairs based on the different sized children in the classroom, and tables with adjustable legs to meet the different needs of children.
Choosing the right school chair matters. It influences the comfort, focus, and well-being of students. So how do you make the best choice?
In this article, let’s explore key factors to consider when selecting chairs for educational spaces.
9 Common Types of School Chairs
Let’s take a quick look at common types of school chairs you’re likely to encounter. Understanding these options is an essential step toward creating an ideal learning environment.
1. Traditional Classroom Chairs
These are the standard go-to chairs for many schools, offering simplicity and functionality. Often come in combo units, they are suitable for most educational settings.
2. Stackable Chairs
These versatile and space-saving seats are easy to store and ideal for multi-purpose rooms or events. They’re like the chameleons of school furniture, adapting to various settings.
Stackable chairs are available with or without casters.
Learn more about different chairs without wheels:
3. Folding Chairs
Folding chairs are lightweight, durable, and cost-effective. They are easy to arrange and provide flexibility, great for both indoor and outdoor seating needs.
4. Combo Desk Chairs with Writing Pads
These school chairs come with a built-in desk, offering a practical solution for note-taking.
Combo chair desks are easy to arrange in neat rows with half the effort. They are space-saving and make it easier for students to move around.
Read more: Top 4 Writing Pad Chairs You Won’t Regret Buying in
5. Mobile and Adjustable Chairs
Chairs on wheels or with height adjustments cater to different grade levels and classroom configurations.
These chairs allow students and teachers can sit in proper postures and move around with ease. Ideal for collaborative activities or lab settings.
6. Lecture Hall Seating
Designed for larger groups in auditoriums or classrooms, they can be either fixed or fold-down for added versatility.
7. Guest Chairs
For receptions, presentations, or parent-teacher meetings, these chairs provide comfort for guests.
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Common types of guest seating include armchairs, club chairs, wing chairs, sofas, Ottomans, and more.
8. Alternative Seating Options
Alternative seating options like bean bags and wobble chairs offer an unconventional yet comfortable seating experience, creating a relaxed and engaging learning space.
Dive deeper: How to Choose the Right Bean Bag Chair: 6-Step Buying Guide
9. Specialized Seating
Inclusive classrooms may require special chairs designed to accommodate students with unique needs.
As you can see, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to school chairs. Your choice should align with the age group, learning environment, and teaching methods in your educational institution.
Consider the Age Group
Now that you have a handle on the different types of school chairs, it’s time to narrow down your choices by considering the age group of students who will use them.
Here’s a quick overview of things to keep in mind:
For Younger Children (Pre-K and Elementary):
- Consider chairs that are colorful, durable, and easy to clean.
- Smaller sizes and stackable chairs are ideal for this age group.
- Chairs with extra safety features are essential to prevent accidents.
For Middle School Students:
- Consider chairs that provide more comfort and adjustability.
- Ergonomic design helps maintain proper sitting posture for longer periods of time.
- Flexibility for different classroom setups remains important.
For High School and Beyond:
- Focus on chairs that promote good posture, support, and comfort.
- Students of different sizes may require height-adjustable chairs.
- Consider overall aesthetics, as older students may be more design-conscious.
Age-appropriate chairs can significantly impact the learning experience. They ensure that students can sit comfortably and concentrate on their studies.
Prioritize Ergonomics and Comfort
Ergonomics affects students’ well-being and productivity. When selecting school chairs, opt for those that prioritize comfort and ergonomic design. They help students focus on their studies without being distracted by discomfort.
Here’s what to consider:
- Proper Posture: Look for chairs with lumbar support and adjustable features. They support good posture, reducing the risk of back pain and discomfort for students.
- Seat Height: Chairs should be the right height for the desks or tables. Students’ feet should comfortably touch the floor or a footrest.
- Seat Depth and Width: Ensure the chair’s seat is deep and wide enough to accommodate students of different sizes without feeling cramped.
- Backrest Design: A contoured backrest that follows the natural curve of the spine is essential for comfort and support.
- Material and Padding: Consider the material of the seat and backrest. It should be easy to clean and provide sufficient padding for comfort.
Bulk Purchasing and School Furniture Supplier Selection
When furnishing a school or educational institution, you’ll often make bulk purchases of school chairs. Here are 3 things to consider:
1. Evaluating Suppliers
Choosing a trustworthy, reliable supplier is the first step. Look for reputable suppliers, especially in the education field.
2. Requesting Quotes and Comparing Offers
Ask different suppliers for quotes. Compare these quotes to find the best deal. Consider factors such as cost, delivery time, and any additional services offered.
3. Warranty and After-Sales Service
Check if the chairs come with a warranty. A good warranty ensures you have support if something goes wrong with the chairs. Also, ask about the supplier’s after-sales service – it’s important to know that they will be there to help you if any issues or questions arise.
At Meet&Co, we understand the importance of creating the perfect learning environment. That’s why we offer a wide range of top-quality school chairs, desks, bunk beds, and other educational furniture.
Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction sets us apart as a trusted supplier in the education industry:
- Quality assurance
- Expert guidance
- Affordable and custom solutions
- Warranty and dedicated after-sales service
Don’t miss the opportunity to create an ideal learning environment for your students. Visit our store or contact us today to explore our range of school furniture solutions.
Conclusion: Crafting the Ideal Learning Space
The right school chairs can transform your learning space into an ideal environment for students. Take the time to choose wisely, and you’ll create a setting where learning truly flourishes.
If you have any questions or need guidance on your school chair journey, feel free to reach out to us at Meet&Co. We’re here to help you create the perfect classroom for your students.
More Resources:
How to Choose the Best School Desks
5 Tips for Choosing the Right School Furniture
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