Strategy: Teaching Classroom Routines
There are five elements to effectively teaching classroom routines:
How to Teach Classroom Routines
Posting Classroom Routines
First, using a poster board, butcher paper, or some other easily displayable medium, put together a display with the routine written out step by step.
- Keep each step of the routine as concise as possible.
- Ensure that the steps are developmentally appropriate. Using pictures and large print is a great way to communicate classroom expectations for young children who may not be able to read the labels.
- Try to keep routines to as few steps as possible.
Next, identify an area of the classroom to post the routines. Ensure that the area can be easily viewed by the entire class without causing disruption. Placing it in proximity to where the routine happens can be a helpful reminder to students (e.g. posting the line-up routine next to the classroom door).
Examples of Classroom Routines
Example of Posted Morning Routine with Images
Morning Routine with Images and Words
End of the Day Routine
References to Other Relevant Resources:
Sprick, R. (2009). CHAMPS: A proactive and positive approach to classroom management. Eugene, OR: Pacific Northwest Publishing.
Reinke, W., Herman, K., & Sprick, R. (2011). Motivational interviewing for effective classroom management: The classroom check-up. New York, NY: Guilford Press.