Sample Classroom Schedules

Arrival

A welcome to the day. Staff greet children and parents and afford the children the opportunity to begin the day by engaging in free play/independent activities.

Arrival

A welcome to the day. Staff greet children and parents and afford the children the opportunity to begin the day by engaging in free play/independent activities.

Greeting Time

A more "formal" group greeting time takes place after the children have arrived. This greeting time may include calendar activities, weather exploration, star of the week, or the choosing of helpers of the day.

Indoor Choice Activities

This portion of the day combines both independent/free play activities with a variety of more specific experiences planned by teachers. These may include, but are not limited to, creative art projects, cooking activities, science exploration, activities utilizing whole language opportunities, perceptual and cognitive development, math and reading readiness skills, and manipulative or sensory materials. The purpose of these activities is to allow children to make individual or small group selections from a variety of activities as planned and implemented by the staff. These experiences provide an environment that fosters the child's physical, social, aesthetic, emotional, and intellectual growth.

Gym/Large Motor Activities

Experiences are planned to enhance large muscle strength, motor coordination, game playing skills, and the enjoyment of exercise. Dramatic play activities needing equipment better suited for the gym (e.g., fire fighters, creative movement and dance) are also included.

Group/Story Time

This large group activity stresses language development and listening skills. Books, flannel stories, puppets, and other language arts, theme related topics, as well as music and creative movement experiences, are introduced. Story time stresses language development, listening skills, and increased attention span. Books may be from school or home, theme related or selected for "kid appeal."

Group/Story Time

This large group activity stresses language development and listening skills. Books, flannel stories, puppets, and other language arts, theme related topics, as well as music and creative movement experiences, are introduced. Story time stresses language development, listening skills, and increased attention span. Books may be from school or home, theme related or selected for "kid appeal."

Snack Time

Social interaction, self-help responsibilities (e.g., pouring own milk, pushing in chair) and good nutrition are the focus.

Clean-Up Time

Self-help skills, classroom responsibility, and respect for materials and equipment are emphasized.

Clean-Up Time

Self-help skills, classroom responsibility, and respect for materials and equipment are emphasized.

Outdoor Free Play

The variety of climbing equipment, play toys, and other materials provides the opportunity for children to interact with other children and adults and to exercise large muscles. They are encouraged to participate in active, creative, and imaginative play, as well as cooperative play. Outside play is included on a daily basis, weather permitting.

Lunch

Staff members eat with the children to provide a positive role model for table manners and social interaction. Children are encouraged to try new foods and take responsibility for their own clean up. Meals are served in family style fashion.

Rest Time

A rest time is provided in all full day programs in order for children to rest and relax. Due to their busy full day of activities, most children do fall asleep at the center. Books are available at this time for children who would prefer to rest quietly.

Preparation for Departure

Choices are made from low-key activities. Children are welcomed to assist in carrying out clean up responsibilities such as feeding the classroom pets, straightening play areas, etc.

Final Departures

Children continue to prepare to leave for the day.

Snack Time

Social interaction, self-help responsibilities (e.g., pouring own milk, pushing in chair) and good nutrition are the focus.