Uses Signals for Transitions (E3.1.4)

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Sub Category: Planning Framework: Environmental Design, Equipment, Materials, Routines, Schedules, and Learning Formats
Credential Level: Level 1 • Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K

COMPETENCY STATEMENT

Consistently uses signals to alert and prepare children for transitions (finger plays, songs, chants, changes in lighting)

DEFINITIONS

Teachers can use signals to help children transition between activities. They can use finger plays, songs, or chants to alert and prepare children for transitions. To teach new signals, teachers can introduce them during a calm and engaging activity, explaining and demonstrating the signal's meaning and purpose. Repetition and consistency are key, so practicing the signals regularly will help children understand and respond to them. These signals support children's understanding of different classroom routines and create a predictable environment.

EXAMPLES

Uses Signals for Transitions
Age Group: Pre-K

In this video, a teacher tells the children it is clean-up time before they can get ready to go outside. Notice how she turns on the cleanup song on an iPad as a signal to help the children transition by cleaning up their toys.

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WAYS TO PRACTICE