Develop a schedule that provides some structure, but allows flexibility. If, for example, the children are engrossed in a particularly satisfying project, extend center time and shorten story time. Provide a place in the classroom for children to store unfinished projects and allow them to return to these projects another day. When children know they can spend more time on a project, they make transitions more easily. This philosophy also encourages children to settle in, becoming deeply involved in their work, rather than flitting from one activity to the next.
Use visuals to help children with transitions. Make a chart that lists the daily routine, along with pictures of each activity. Go over the chart repeatedly at the beginning of the year so the children know what to expect. Attach pictures to the chart with Velcro or place them in a pocket chart so they are movable. When you must make a change in the daily routine, move the pictures accordingly and discuss the changes with the children at the beginning of class.
Use cues to alert children that a transition is approaching. Assign one child to turn off the lights, raise a paper cut-out of a hand, and say, "Five more minutes until clean-up." Go individually to children who have difficulty transitioning, touch them on the shoulder and look them in the eye. Repeat the warning, "In five more minutes, we will clean up for snack," so you know they have heard and understood you.
Some children have a difficult time finishing one project and moving on to the next. Make an "all done" box for these children. When a child finishes a puzzle or project, ask him to place the project in the "all done" box. This physical act alone is often enough to help a child move through the transition. Learn a few signs, such as the sign for "all done," as well. Children are most likely to comply when you use a visual or verbal cue, along with a sign. Place a line of tape on the floor where you want children to line up. Cut out foot prints from construction paper and affix them to the floor with contact paper to show children where to put their shoes. Physical, visual reminders are powerful ways to help children remember routines and expectations.
Songs and movement distract children, and irresistibly guide them through transitions. Develop songs for every part of your day -- clean up, snack and closing circle. Start singing to signal that the transition is about to take place. Ask children to jump, hop or fly to the snack table, to wash their hands or to line up.