How to Manage Preschool Center Time

Arts and crafts can help kids develop creative minds.

Preschool kids require schedules that accommodate their growing brains, curiosity and attention spans. Having the kids sitting too long can cause them to be fussy and distracted, though letting them run around wild all day is not practical either. Creating a schedule that allows for a mixture of activities and balances quiet and active times can help the kids get the most out of their preschool experience.

Instructions

1. Create a routine that is followed every day or almost every day. Small children respond well to set schedules. Explain any schedule changes to the kids at the beginning of the day, such as if a dog trainer and his golden retriever are scheduled to visit the classroom that afternoon to teach the kids about dog safety.

2. Schedule the day so that it flows from one activity to the next in a smooth manner. For example, after the children run around for a half-hour outside, it may be tough to get them to settle down and sit still. Following playtime, plan an interactive activity at which the kids will be more sedentary than recess but yet not have to be completely quiet. Arts and crafts activities and interactive learning games are two ideas.

3. Plan snack, lunch and nap times so that the kids are satiated; being hungry or tired can lead preschool kids to become cranky and possibly have tantrums. Allow time for a morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack. Plan a time for napping in the early afternoon.

4. Allow the kids a set amount of free time during the day during which they can choose their own activities. These activities may include playing games, listening to a story or being creative with art supplies.

5. Keep group sessions limited to 20 minutes. After that amount of time, preschool kids can become fussy.

6. Include time for outdoor play, weather permitting, or designate part of the day for kids to get some exercise indoors.

References

• “Preschool Classroom Management: 150 Teacher-Tested Techniques”; Laverne Warner and Sharon Lynch