Creating an environment that supports learning, engagement, and positive behaviour is key to any successful classroom. One often overlooked tool in achieving these goals is the humble classroom rug. With the right design and functionality, classroom rugs can enhance learning experiences, help manage classroom behaviour and encourage student engagement. 

Classroom Mats to Support Quality Learning and Engagement

A classroom rug serves as more than just a decorative piece. It acts as a central gathering space where students can come together to learn and engage with lessons. When a teacher calls students to sit on the rug for a story, group activity, or lesson, it creates a shift in energy from their desks. This shift can help students refocus their attention and create a sense of community, as everyone is sitting together on the same level, free from the distractions of individual desks or chairs. The coziness of sitting on a soft rug, rather than hard chairs, makes students feel more at ease, encouraging them to engage.

Additionally, classroom rugs are great for segmenting time and space. For instance, designating the rug area as a place for reading or specific learning activities creates a visual cue for students, which helps structure the day. The familiar routine of gathering on the rug supports students' learning by setting consistent expectations for what happens in different areas of the room.

How to Enhance Behaviour Management in the Classroom

Classroom management is one of the most challenging aspects of teaching, but the strategic use of rugs and placement seating mats can provide crucial support in managing student behaviour. Here are some ways a classroom mat can support behaviour management in the classroom:

• Seating mats can give each student a designated spot to sit during group lessons or activities. These individual spots on the mat act as personal spaces, giving children a sense of ownership and responsibility for their behaviour while sitting there.
• Teachers can strategically place students who need more guidance or focus in specific spots on the placement mat. For example, a student who tends to be easily distracted might be seated closer to the teacher, while a more independent learner could be positioned further away. The versatility of a classroom rug, particularly one where the design is based on placement, offers teachers flexibility to create seating arrangements that support each student's individual needs.
• Classroom rugs provide a soft and cushioned area where students can sit comfortably for longer periods compared to hard chairs or the cold floor. This increased comfort can lead to better attention and retention, as students are not distracted by physical discomfort.
• Rugs can brighten up the room with colour and design, which can have a calming effect on students. This is especially important for younger children who may feel anxious or overwhelmed by the school environment. A comfortable, cozy area helps to ease those feelings and encourages a more relaxed learning environment.

Sustainable and Practical Classroom Solutions

In recent years, the focus on sustainability and eco-friendly products has grown significantly, and Bloom Classroom mats lead the charge in providing sustainable classroom seating solutions. With the top made from 100% recycled materials, including ocean waste and recycled consumer plastic containers, these mats demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. This not only helps reduce waste but also serves as an excellent opportunity to teach students about sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The base of the Bloom Classroom mats is also composed of 34% recycled materials, with 20% coming from recycled car tyres and 14% from recycled consumer plastic containers. This dual use of recycled materials ensures the mats are not only eco-friendly but also durable and practical for classroom use. The heavy weight of the mats prevents them from moving around on the floor during lessons or activities, offering a safe and stable seating option for students.

Another standout feature of Bloom Classroom mats is their non-trip edges, which enhance the safety of students moving around the classroom. Tripping accidents are a common concern when using floor mats in busy classrooms, but with the innovative design of Bloom Classroom mats, teachers can rest assured that their students' safety is prioritised.

Cleaning and maintaining Bloom Classroom mats is also simple and efficient. They can be easily spot cleaned, taken outside and hosed or pressure washed ensuring that they stay fresh and hygienic even with daily use. Their durability means they can withstand repeated cleaning without wearing out, making them a practical and long-lasting solution for classrooms. Check out our short video showing how effectively our mats can be cleaned!

See our before and after cleaning photo below.

Conclusion

Classroom rugs and seating mats, particularly sustainable options like Bloom Classroom mats, provide a range of benefits that can enhance the quality of learning, student engagement, and classroom behaviour. From creating a cosy and welcoming atmosphere to supporting classroom management with strategic seating arrangements, the use of rugs and mats can make a significant difference in the daily life of a classroom. Get in touch today to enquire about designing your own classroom mat!