Meet the Kids
When you come into the classroom, make a point to go around to each child and say hello. Look at their nametag and call them by name. This establishes who you are, and that you are part of the class.

Participate!
Whether its song time, story time, or game time, set the example for the children by doing the activity with them.

Give Out Special Attention
Often, when preschoolers become unruly, they are showing their need for a little extra attention. A child who has difficulty sitting still in their own chair will often sit in a teacher’s lap because of the extra attention they receive.

Take Care of the Stragglers
When the lead teacher is directing an activity that involves the majority of the children, watch for those that wander away or who don’t participate. Sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement for them to participate. Other times it may be better if the child is allowed to play quietly away from the group. You make the call – you can still participate, but keep an eye on them to help them stay out of trouble.

Enforce the Rules
Remember that most preschoolers will test rules several times. Most of the rules in the classroom are designated with safety in mind: not climbing on furniture, standing in chairs, playing in the water (the hot water gets hot very quickly), no hitting, biting, kicking or roughhousing. Some rules are learning tools to prepare them to move up to the older classes: snacks and drinks only while seated, toys, puzzles and books only come out at playtime.

Potty Breaks
When preschoolers need to go to the bathroom, they need to go NOW. If the lead teacher is teaching the story, take the child to the bathroom so the lead teacher can continue the lesson. (When assisting a child going to the toilet, ALWAYS leave the door open. If the child insists on shutting the door, wait outside or have another adult accompany you.) If the lead teacher must take a child to the bathroom, please keep the current activity (craft, songs, games) going.

Crafts & Activities
Get involved with the activity. You can help distribute supplies, help with some of the more difficult tasks, be sure the children are not eating crayons, or simply praise a child for what he has done. Some children may need extra help to understand directions or complete the task – you can help them feel good about what they have done.

Enjoy!
You have an hour to get your daily quota of hugs from these little ones. They will brighten your whole day!