Give children a warning 30 minutes before the end of the day. Announce that it's going to be time to go home soon, then explain what you'll be doing for the final half hour. This allows children to gauge how long they have left to play.
Organize quiet activities for the end of the day, since running around on the playground or playing in the gym will get children worked up. Set out blocks, coloring or clay. Let children choose whether they want to play alone or with others. If one child often struggles to get along with others, set him up at his own table with a quiet activity that he'll enjoy doing alone.
Turn the lights down in the classroom and play relaxing music for this final half hour. This helps children calm their bodies down and prepare for the transition. Ask students and teachers to use quiet, even voices during this time.
Play a book on tape or read a story at the end of every day. Children will know that when you call them over to the story carpet at the end of the day, it means it's just about time to go home. Allow children to lie down if they'd like. Listening to a story keeps them distracted while their bodies get calm.
Lay out children's backpacks and coats while they listen to the story. If children are all trying to get to their cubbies at the same time and struggling into their coats in the same area, they're guaranteed to fight and become agitated. Preparing everything in advance allows children to calmly collect their belongings on the way out the door. Parents will also appreciate their children being ready to go when they arrive at pick-up time.