The first hour of two of the school day can be a challenge. Students may be tired, hungry from skipping breakfast or generally unhappy to be back at school. Children who struggle academically or resist following directions may dread going to school and can have a difficult time getting started each day. Teachers can make this transition easier by scheduling free play at the beginning of the day. If students are allowed to either play together or sit quietly in the reading corner, each child can do what makes her feel comfortable as she eases into the day.
After a fun day of playing and learning, students may head to their parents' cars, a school bus or an after-school activity. By the end of a long day, children can be tired and cranky, leading to a challenging transition time. Some children will also enjoy school so much that they'll be upset when it's time to leave. Teachers can make the end of the day transition run smoothly by scheduling quiet story time at the end of the day. This helps children relax and helps them feel calm as they prepare to go home.
In classrooms of young children, transitions from one activity to another can be extremely stressful for teachers. Because teachers must cover a variety of subjects in a day, children may feel that they're being pushed into a new topic just as they've gotten the hang of what they're doing. Preschoolers and kindergartners in particular may want to control their lives by saying, "No!" when a teacher asks them to put away their toys and begin a new activity. Teachers should announce each transition five minutes in advance, then allow several minutes for students to clean up and move to a second area.
The beginning of a new school year is a transition for everyone. After a summer of fun and freedom, many students will be antsy and unable to focus during the first several days of school. Preschoolers and kindergartners especially may have a difficult time adjusting to the structure of a school environment. To make this transition smooth, teachers may talk to each student's parents before the year starts to decide the best way to help him adjust. Teachers must also stay patient during this time and remember that with time, students will become comfortable in the classroom.