1. Daily Schedules & Routines
Early Childhood and Elementary Education

2. Daily Schedules Why are they important for early childhood programs?
Provides the framework for the day’s activities.
Allows things to run smoothly.
Good for teachers and children.

3. Planning a Daily Schedules
What are the factors that should be considered when planning a daily schedule?

4. Children’s age
Length of day and time children arrive
Balance of activities
Length of attention span
Number of available adults
Physical and psychological needs.

5. A schedule should… Have large blocks of open time. Be flexible
Include basic routines
Be based on school and state requirements.

6. A schedule should include…
Arrival routines
Opening activity
Large group activities (subject areas)
Small group activities (subject areas)
Self-selected activities
Meals and snacks
Nap time

7. Don’t forget about time for…
Playing
Eating
Dressing and undressing
Using the bathroom
Napping (for younger children)
Transitions

8. Why are routines important for young children?
What is a routine?…
An everyday experience such as dressing, eating, napping, and toileting.
Why are routines important for young children?
They provide opportunities for children to develop independence.

9. What are some routines that a teacher must know in order to guide students?
Dressing and Undressing
Toileting
Eating
Napping
Cleanup

10. What are transitions? Changes from one activity to another.
Moving from one place to another.
What are some examples?
Why must transitions be carefully planned?

11. Example of school and state requirements for Grade 1
Subject Area Minutes/week
Language Arts – 850
Math – 275
Science – 120
Social Studies 60 – 80
Health/Safety 50 – 60
Physical Education 60 – 90
Art
Music
Computers 15

12. How can a teacher plan a schedule that includes all of this?
State requirements for subject areas
Eating
Playtime
Daily routines
Transitions
Unexpected events
How can a teacher plan a schedule that includes all of this?