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“Sit Back Down”: When Students Walk Around the Classroom

We've all seen the classroom wanderer: a student or students roaming around as if they've been granted freedom from their desks. While a little movement can be good, sometimes it can feel like you're trying to herd cats.

What's behind the constant roaming, and how can we channel that energy productively? Let's dive in.

Why Are They Up and About?

It's important to understand that students aren't always walking around because they want to disrupt the class. In many cases, they need a break, stretch, or simply a change of scenery. We've all sat too long at a meeting, itching to stretch our legs. Kids feel the same way, but their impulse control has yet to fully develop. They get up without thinking about it.

Sometimes, getting up from their seat could signify boredom or disengagement. If the lesson isn't grabbing their attention, their minds wander, and their feet follow. Some students use walking around as a way to self-regulate their emotions or focus better. They might find it easier to concentrate after a quick stroll.

Set Clear Expectations

Students need to know when it's okay to get up and when it's not. Establish clear rules for your classroom. For example, you might say, "You can leave your seat to sharpen your pencil or grab materials, but ask permission first." Be consistent. If you let it slide one day, you're setting yourself up for a battle the next.

The Power of Movement Breaks

Sometimes, students walk around because they're bursting with energy. Instead of trying to suppress that energy, use it! Try the ever-popular 'Brain Break.'

Have your students stand up, stretch, or move silly for at least 30 seconds. If your students need a longer break, try a 5-minute video from YouTube. A brain break gives your students a chance to move, but it also helps reset their focus. These breaks boost productivity and help students return to their seats when it's time to learn.

Try these popular brain-break videos:

Activities That Keep Them Seated

Another reason your students might be wandering is because they're not fully engaged in the lesson. When students are actively participating, they're less likely to feel the need to roam.

Here are a few activities to keep them glued to their seats:

  1. Interactive Games: Incorporate games that require students to think and respond quickly, like "Classroom Jeopardy" or "Around the World." When your students are focused on winning or getting the right answer, they're less likely to get up.

  2. Group Work with Roles: Break the class into small groups and assign each student a specific role, like note-taker, presenter, or researcher. This gives them a sense of responsibility and keeps them engaged.

  3. Hands-On Learning: Incorporate activities that allow students to work with their hands while sitting down. This could be anything from building models to creating art projects related to the lesson. When their hands are busy, their feet are less likely to move.

Address the Root Cause

If you notice a particular student constantly walking around, it's worth investigating why. Is it a sign of restlessness, or are they avoiding the work? Sometimes, frequent movement can mask anxiety or confusion about the lesson. Have a one-on-one chat with the student to understand what's going on and how you can help.

Activities and Aids

Here's a list of activities and tools to help manage movement while keeping students engaged:

  • Flexible Seating Chart: Allow your students to choose where they sit. Sometimes, a simple change of scenery (within the room) can satisfy their need for movement.

  • Different Types of Chairs: Add various types of seating in your classroom. Try a yoga ball, a wobble chair, or a bean bag. These seating choices can be earned or used as a reward.

  • "Walk and Talk" Discussions: Pair students up and have them discuss a topic while walking around the room for a few minutes. They get to move while staying on task.

  • Movement-Friendly Tasks: Use activities that involve movement but within a controlled environment. For example, a "Gallery Walk" where students move from one station to another to review different parts of the lesson.

Balancing Movement with Learning

Managing student movement in the classroom doesn't have to be a constant struggle. By understanding the reasons behind their behavior and incorporating movement into your lessons, you can create an environment that balances the need to move with the need to learn.

Written by Brooke Lektorich

Education World Contributor

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