Many preschoolers have never been involved in a structured educational setting, so they need instruction on walking in a line. Teach the students that when the class needs to travel to another location, they will need to walk in a quiet line. Communicate that this is important so they don't distract other classes while walking, and so everyone stays safe and with the class.
Sometimes a visual cue will help students who need to practice walking in a line. The Montessori Primary Guide suggests placing tape on the floor in straight and curved lines so children can practice walking one at a time over the tape. This exercise helps them gain control over their bodies, and it gives teachers the opportunity to reiterate expectations before leaving the classroom.
It may be helpful to invest in a product that trains children to walk in a line. Educational supply companies offer long ropes or straps that have numerous handles or loops at regular distance intervals. If the children hold on to the handles while they are walking, the rope will keep them in line, Before long, they will be able to do it without the tool.
For a large class, walking in a line can be challenging because the children at the end of the line will start to get distracted, wander and talk. If this is an issue, split the class into two groups and make two lines that walk side by side. This will result in a shorter line and teachers will have an easier time monitoring the entire group.
Sometimes it seems like preschoolers have selective memory. The things you want them to forget they bring up constantly, and they struggle with the things you want them to remember. Consistently remind children every time you leave the room in a line what is expected of them. Pro Teacher suggests using a little rhyme to give expectations in a fun way:
"My eyes are looking forward.
I'm standing straight and tall.
I put my arms at my sides.
I'm ready for the hall."
Reward systems are one of the easiest ways to quickly manage preschool behavior. Consistently praise those children who meet expectations and watch the others fall into line. For more incentive, give tangible rewards for children who do well. Start a star chart and allow the children to pick from a prize box when they reach 10 stars. In "Reward Systems That Work," Education World suggests giving points to children, and allowing them to use the points to buy items at a classroom store. Stock the store with small toys, treats, pencils, stickers, bookmarks and other inexpensive prizes.