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Education Furniture: Furniture For Kids’ Instructional Uses

July 24th, 2008

There are two main types of furniture used in the classroom and educational settings. Those are chairs and tables. Regardless of the classroom particulars concerning seats or equipment for computers, the focus of attention needs to be on enhancing the learning atmosphere. For an overview of characteristics you should weigh before buying furniture for the classroom, read on.

Student Desks

The desk is the most basic piece of education furniture, and is a classroom staple. While traditionally desks were designed to also hold the student’s workbooks and papers, today more schools are moving toward a mobile classroom environment. That means students walk from classroom to classroom, bringing their belongings with them and making the need for desks with storage capacity or even some cabinets obsolete.

Art Tables

Craft tables are a great addition to any classroom, whether for the elementary or secondary school environment. With younger children, they can be used also for creative projects and artwork. With older students, they’re perfect for group project meetings, alternative work spaces and, of course, creative or art-based work.

Of course, if intend to purchase activity or group tables for older students, look for full-sized options. Likewise, smaller children will need lower worktables and smaller chairs. If you’re using the task table for arts and crafts activities, opt for one with an easily washable surface.

Science Desks

Usually, lab tables are higher than typical desks so students can stand while they conduct experiments and get a bird’s eye view of their work. They’re also designed to be easily cleaned and thoroughly disinfected. Ideally, when purchasing education furniture for the science lab, you should also look for tables that won’t slip or skid and can be easily leveled to provide a perfectly level lab surface.

Computer Chairs

Task chairs for children should be appropriately sized and ergonomically correct. Rather than relying on a hard plastic chair, children’s computer chairs should be high enough to bring their arms above desk level, but low enough to either let their feet sit flat on the floor or offer a foot support.

Computer Workstations

Whether it’s for the computer lab, library or study area, computer workstations are quickly becoming a crucial staple for most schools. When purchasing a computer desk, look for one that’s height adjustable, ergonomically correct and offers organization solutions for wayward wires and accessories. Some models also offer a lockable cabinet for the desktop computer.

Besides standard computer desks, schools might want to include laptop workstations as part of their education furniture purchases. Because so many students are starting to bring personal laptops to school to take notes and complete their homework, having laptop-ready desks in the classrooms and the libraries can be a great solution.

Entry Filed under: Reference & Education