Though transitions occur throughout the day, teachers often leave them out of the classroom schedule. Mapping out a detailed activity schedule, which includes chunks of time for moving from one exercise to the next, will reduce the amount of pressure educators and students feel during these transitions. Providing children with a schedule and giving warnings before the end of an activity will prepare them for upcoming transitions. For instance, set a kitchen timer or ring a bell to signify the end of a project.
When designing the classroom, consider a layout that will allow students to flow easily throughout the classroom. By setting up the library close to the restroom, teachers provide students with something to do while waiting for a turn. Considering the students' personalities will also help in creating assigned spots for nap or at the lunch table. If two children continually distract each other during transition times, alter the class setting to separate them.
Playing a game to move children from one task to the next gives them a positive experience with transitions. When calling the children to line up, let them take turns depending on their shirt color or first initial. Then, ask the children to hop like rabbits or tiptoe as mice down the hallway. This will organize the children quietly, and without disruption. By making the decision on a creative way to move down the hallway, children guide the transition and feel included.
Young children respond to music in a pleasant manner. Singing a song about what you expect from the students will encourage them to comply. Songs have been created to facilitate many transitions, including circle time, lunch time, clean-up and potty breaks. These songs usually liven up the room and get the kids singing along. Calming, classical music aids in relaxing children and preparing for a nap.
Puppets entertain children and also provide the teacher with an alternate voice to address the students. Puppets can approach the children as a peer and ask for advice on how to follow the rules of classroom transition. Students will learn more about their own expectations by instructing the puppets. Teachers can also use a puppet to call children to line up or go potty.