[Hannah]

Once you create the schedule make sure to let the children know so that they can be prepared. If it is a consistent schedule, enforce it from the get-go. If you are comfortable and able to let the children partake in creating the schedule I would say let them.

[Rebekah]

In our classrooms we have a printed schedule posted on the wall of the classroom as well as a smaller schedule with pictures for the kids to interact with and know what is going on during the day. For example, for nap time there is a picture of a kid sleeping and during before nap time the kids can move the small block over to the done side.

[eric]

A daily routine should be organized and daily but should be flexible enough to include all children and their needs.

[Peyton]

I think scheduling based around meal times and nap times is a great way to start

[Olivia]

Starting your schedule around meal times, and then build from there. If the child takes a nap, add those in. Then you can move forward to age appropriate activities. Schedule outside times when the weather is better for them, i.e. in the mornings before it gets too hot. Add activities like circle time in the morning when they are able to maintain focus for longer, and add in movement activities to keep that focus. Make sure they know what’s coming up next, many times, especially if there’s a change to the schedule.

[Lexy]

Always involving the children when creating the schedules, including snacks, and suggestions from parents or even other coworkers would be beneficial. Make the schedule in advance and always make sure to inform parents of activities you plan that require the child to use messy stain possibility materials.

[Liana]

When I plan a daily schedule the foundation is meal times and rest times. Then building in sensory, crafts and free play times.

[Marissa]

Keep it consistent each day. However, if you realize something isn’t working don’t be afraid to change it. Kids are quick to adapt. Just don’t change this often.

[Robyn]

When creating a routine I like to start with mealtimes and rest time and build from there. I then post pictures of what the daily routine looks like so the parents and children know what to anticipate throughout the day.

[Sophia]

Have consistent meal times, give choices on planned activities.

[Sarah]

I think that it is good to involve the children in planning things aside from meal times and resting time. Giving them a voice in what their day may include contributes to a caring environment

[AJ]

When creating a schedule keep meal times the same. Observe the children and figure out when the children start to move around more and become overly active and use those times for outdoor time/recess. Plan a few outdoor breaks throughout the day. Include a nap with a good amount of space after a outdoor time so the children have time to calm down. Maybe do a more calming and slow activity in between a trip outside and the nap.

[Ella Christiansen]

Make your schedule flexible. Don’t make it permanent until you meet the kiddos and see how things work out for them. You sometimes need to adjust parts of your schedule to meet the needs of your students.

Make sure you give plenty of time for transitions.

[Jamie]

Transition time should be well thought out and purposeful. The schedule should have plenty of time for little people to adjust to the change.

[Alexis]

Understanding that these are children and they are not perfect so making it as simple as possible for them to follow and making sure your intop of it and keeping it structured will help them as well.

[Madison]

I think children would love to be incorporated in creating the schedule. Have a set breakfast, lunch and dinner times. Then add in any classroom time, recess, nap time and pickup time. let them decide the order some days? Positive reinforcement also would work great with this.