Daily Schedules & Routines

Early Childhood and Elementary Education

Daily SchedulesWhy 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.

Planning a Daily Schedules

What are the factors that should be considered when planning a daily

schedule?

• 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.

• Have large blocks of open time.

• Be flexible• Include basic routines• Be based on school and

state requirements.

A schedule should…

• Arrival routines• Opening activity• Large group activities (subject areas)• Small group activities (subject areas)• Self-selected activities• Meals and snacks• Nap time

A schedule should include…

• Playing• Eating• Dressing and undressing• Using the bathroom• Napping (for younger children)• Transitions

Don’t forget about time for…

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.

What is a routine?…

• Dressing and Undressing• Toileting• Eating• Napping• Cleanup

What are some routines that a teacher must know

in order to guide students?

• Changes from one activity to another.

• Moving from one place to another.

What are transitions?

What are some examples?

Why must transitions be carefully planned?

Subject Area Minutes/weekLanguage Arts 800 – 850 Math 250 – 275Science 100 – 120Social Studies 60 – 80Health/Safety 50 – 60Physical Education 60 – 90Art 40Music 30Computers 15

Example of school and state requirements for Grade 1

• State requirements for subject areas

• Eating

• Playtime

• Daily routines

• Transitions

• Unexpected events

How can a teacher plan a schedule that includes all of this?