In the United States and other leading educational countries like New Zealand and Australia, "Morning Routines" are an essential practice in classrooms. These morning routines not only kickstart the school day but also transform the atmosphere, boosting student concentration, participation, and motivation.
By anticipating the day's activities and actively participating in the routine, students feel more confident and excited to learn. For educators of young children, special education students, and physical education classes, these strategies are fundamental to improving children's attention and readiness for learning.
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How a Morning Routine Is Organized in a U.S. Classroom
Morning routines not only organize the school day but also strengthen the connection between students and teachers, fostering a warm and structured learning environment. Integrating these practices at different educational levels can make a big difference in student motivation and participation.
Common Stages in a U.S. Classroom Morning Routine
Morning routines in U.S. classrooms are usually divided into several stages, ensuring a smooth transition to learning:
Personalized Greeting: Using a "Hello" or "Good Morning" song helps connect with the moment and motivates students for the start of the school day. You can use generic songs or change them according to the day, the weather, or the season. At the end of this text, you'll find some examples of Good Morning Songs.
Emotional Check-in: Students are given the opportunity to express how they feel. This can be done with emotion cards, drawings, or simply sharing verbally.
Calendar Review and Day Planning: The planned activities, important events, and daily objectives are reviewed, helping students anticipate what's coming.
Cognitive Activation Activity: A brief task, such as a riddle, a math problem, or a question, is included to spark curiosity and critical thinking.
Circle Time or Group Discussion: A time to share ideas, reflect on a topic of the day, or participate in an interactive activity.
Mindfulness or Breathing Exercise: A brief moment to relax the mind, focus, and prepare for learning. This can include deep breaths, stretches, or concentration exercises.
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What Is Circle Time and How Is It Used in the Classroom?
Circle Time is an educational strategy in which students gather in a circle to participate in group activities, share ideas, and strengthen connections with their peers. It's a structured time in the morning routine that helps foster communication, cooperation, and active listening.
During Circle Time, teachers can include activities such as games, reflections, open-ended questions, or mindfulness exercises. This space helps create a positive environment and prepare students for learning.
5 Examples of Circle Time Activities
Emotion Wheel: Each student expresses how they feel using cards with facial expressions or keywords.
Collaborative Story: One student starts a story, and each classmate adds a new part until it's complete.
The Talking Object: An object (like a ball) is used and passed among students; only the person holding it can speak, encouraging active listening.
Positive Affirmations: Each student shares a positive quality of a classmate, promoting self-esteem and empathy.
Quick Question Game: Questions are asked to the group, such as "If you were an animal, what would you be and why?" stimulating creativity and oral expression.
See other examples of morning routines adapted to different educational contexts:
Early Childhood Education
In early childhood education, it's key for routines to be interactive and visual. Some recommended activities include:
Good Morning Songs: A short, energetic song to playfully and attractively mark the start of the day. You can add a creative activity where each child chooses a type of greeting at the end of the song (high-five, hug, dance). This helps create bonds and generate a positive environment from the start.
Emotion Wheel: Children choose an image that represents their mood and share it with the group. This promotes emotional communication and empathy.
Mini Movement Exercises: Stretches, kids' yoga, or dancing help activate the body and mind before starting academic activities.
Special Education
For students with special educational needs, it's important to offer structured and predictable routines that provide security and stability:
Visual Boards: Use pictograms or keywords to anticipate activities and aid in understanding the routine.
Sensory Routine: Incorporate exercises like deep breathing, manipulation of sensory objects, or gentle movements to prepare students for learning.
Emotional Check-in with Cards: Students can point to their mood on cards with colors or images, facilitating emotional expression without needing to verbalize.
Individual Preparation Time: Some students may need a brief space to organize themselves before starting the day, allowing for a more comfortable transition.
Social Stories: Reading short stories that explain the day's activities can help students anticipate and reduce anxiety.
Elementary Education (PreK-12)
In elementary education, routines can foster autonomy and active participation, establishing a clear structure for the day:
Daily Agenda: Reviewing the calendar and daily objectives together allows students to know what to expect and organize themselves mentally.
Helper of the Day: Assigning a helper for each day fosters responsibility and student self-esteem.
Group Interaction: Brief activities of exchanging ideas on a topic foster collaboration and participation.
Gratitude Log: Each student mentions something positive from the previous day, promoting a positive mindset and personal reflection.
Physical Education
In physical education, it's key to prepare the body and mind for physical activity through a structured routine:
Warm-up Game: Stretching and warm-up activities like jumping rope, or having each child move by imitating an animal of their preference.
Breathing and Concentration: Breathing control exercises allow students to relax their minds and improve focus.
Review of Safety Rules: It's essential to remember the rules of the game and how to avoid accidents, fostering respect and cooperation.
Team Dynamics: A small collaborative exercise before the main activity can reinforce social and teamwork skills.
Support Materials and Activity Ideas for the Classroom
Children's Songs in English for Teaching in the U.S. (Free Guide with Lyrics) - Download here!
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