Disorganization of
centre after use –
materials missing/not
put away/broken
Are there too many materials?
How can I gradually build
children’s success in caring for,
and organizing materials?
Are the materials appropriate
for children at this stage of
development?
Limit the number of materials, especially
at the beginning of the year.
Demonstrate how to handle and care for
items. After demonstration, have one of
the children show how to put things away.
Appoint a child each day to ‘inspect’ the
centres at the end of tidying.
Clearly label storage bins with pictures
and words, or mark the contour of the item
on the shelving, so children will know
where things go.
Engage children in reorganizing the centre.
Inappropriate voice
and actions used
Do the children clearly
understand the behavioural
expectations?
Who are the children involved
and is this a pattern of
behaviour?
What do I need to model?
How can I guide/redirect
choices to facilitate productive
behaviour?
Are the toys/materials leading
children into inappropriate play?
Establish classroom/centre expectations.
(“Remember…” Chart.) If things aren’t
working, re-teach or change. Discuss why
loud voices and destructive actions are
not acceptable.
Sometimes children are not aware of the
effect of their voice, so drama activities
using the voice in different ways can be
helpful.
Be specific in acknowledging appropriate
behaviour.
Redirect use of materials, and acknowledge
examples of different ways materials are
used.
Running between
centres
How can I organize the centres to
facilitate and guide effective and
appropriate traffic flow?
Are the expectations about
running in the classroom clear?
When does the running occur? Is
there a pattern?
Ensure that spaces for centres are well-
defined to indicate the purpose.
Move furniture, shelving, and dividers to
cordon off the space.
Eliminate large expanses of space that
encourage running.
Ensure that children have an opportunity
for physical movement and exercise
within the day.