Lining up to go somewhere is often the most stressful part of a teacher's day. Correctly having children line up can help reduce stress and behavior problems. The most important part of lining up is a routine. By having a successful line up time you will be able to turn this into a meaningful time of day for all students.
Line up time
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Calm class down by turning out the lights, singing a song, or doing another transition strategy
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State your expectations (lining up, getting coats, and lining up)
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Help children with lining up
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As children line up remind them of the expectations and keep them entertained by singing a song or using another approach
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Remind children of expectations when they leave the classroom
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Count children and make sure you have all of them
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Transition children to next activity
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Count children upon arrival
Count children before lining up, when in line, while you are going to the location and once you get to the location
What to do if a child will not line up try the following strategies:
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If/Then statements-If you line up, then we can go outside
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Sing a song
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Offer jobs
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Use a transition tool such as headphones, sunglasses, gloves, etc.
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Tips to having children line up in an orderly fashion:
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Play games where children stand in a line-red rover, follow the leader
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Use direction songs to teach children to follow directions in line. Ask curriculum director if you need these
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Remember to keep standing in line to a minimum. If children will be standing in line for more than a minute or two, have them sit down instead of stand. Remind children to keep their hands to themselves.
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Stop the line if needed. You can even have children sit down. Restate expectations and try again.
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If your class is having trouble walking from one area to another, have them repeat the process, or just the children that are unable to stay with the group. (Example: walking from one door to another until they stay with teacher and do it correctly)
Line Up Time