How to Keep a Large Group of Kids Calm, Quiet and Respectful,

Keeping a large group of kids quiet, respectful and calm can be quite a challenge, but with a little planning, concrete boundaries and limit setting, caring for a large group of kids can be easier than you may think.So if you are responsible for keeping a large group of kids safe, entertained and well behaved, follow these simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• A plan

Instructions

1. Plan in advance. Check out the space where you will be caring for the kids and be sure it is safe. Stock up on appropriate snacks and supplies. You also may want to draft a schedule for your time together.

2. Prepare your space. When you have a lot of kids, setting up a theme with play stations can work well. Choose a theme like on the farm or in the kitchen and have stations set up that embrace the theme. Having a puzzle station, arts and crafts station, block station, kitchen station and quiet station with books can provide an opportunity for several kids to take part in activities together. Choose activities that welcome more than one child. Coloring, for example is great because kids won't be fighting over crayons since there are plenty to go around.

3. Start your time off together with a group meeting. Communicate your behavioral expectations, the rules and consequences for breaking them and he schedule to the children. Be sure to follow through and hold the kids accountable to the rules.

4. Allow time for kids to spend energy. Playing outside can help kids to let out energy. Having a quiet time and time for snack can also ensure that kids are getting their rest needs and nutritional needs met.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow for outside time, quiet time and snack time. Kids behave best when they have opportunities to release energy, eat and rest.

• Consider showing an age appropriate movie as a reward for good behavior. Let the kids know that if they follow the rules, they can watch a show.

• Be sure to ask parents if kids have an allergies or medical concerns before providing care.

• Be sure to have a good ratio of children to adults. You want to create a safe environment for the children, so be sure to have all the hands that you may need.