Create a schedule for each day and hang it where all the children can easily view it. Use pictures and words to ensure all the children will understand what is expected of them. For example, you can use a picture of food for lunchtime and one of a bathroom to indicate restroom time. Have the children draw pictures for you to use on the schedule so they feel as if they have a part in developing the classroom routine.
Put a twist on an old favorite with a game designed to teach classroom routines simply and efficiently. Explain to the children they need to do what teacher says in the quickest and quietest way possible. Demonstrate the routine first, then have the children follow when you say "Teacher says." For example, show the children how to put away books on the shelves or toys in the bins. Say, "Teacher says clean up the play area" and watch the children as they put the toys and books away. Making it a game will help the children to have fun while learning the classroom rules and routines.
Enlist the help of your students to assist you in teaching classroom routines to everyone. Choose one or several students to be your "helpers." Have the students demonstrate various classroom routines, such as preparing for circle time or lining up quietly to walk in the hall. Learning from peers can help the information stick in a child's mind more readily, and makes the student helpers feel special and important. Rotate the class helpers so no one feels left out and everyone has a chance to teach and learn the routines with the entire class.
Create bright and colorful reminders for your students to help remember where things go and what they are supposed to do. Use colored bins for homework papers placed near the door, so students will have to pass by upon entering the classroom. Create large and colorful signs with class rules on them. Place the signs in various places of the room for the children to see. Have the children make signs as well for their desks and backpacks. Letting the children make papers with the rules will help solidify the routines in their minds.