Go through the classroom and attach a picture label to each shelf and box where toys are stored. Place labels at children's eye level so they can easily determine the type of toy that belongs in the labeled space.
Show children the labels and talk about the toys that belong there. Tell them that when playtime is over, they will return the toys to the spaces where they are stored. Remind them again before playtime begins.
Announce that playtime is over with a special signal reserved only for the end of the activity. Use a silly sounding horn or a slide whistle. Suggest to the children that they all pretend to be vacuum cleaners or dump trucks as they return the toys to their designated places.
Time the cleanup period by playing a song on the classroom CD player. Say "freeze" when the song is over and praise the children if all the toys are picked up at that time. Play the song once more if there are still things to put away. Challenge the children to have everything cleaned up after only one song.