It is especially important if you work with or have young children to prepare for the lesson properly. Set the tables up for the lesson beforehand. Cover them with tablecloths or butcher paper if necessary. Only set out the materials for the very first steps of the lesson if possible, lining the other materials in order out of their reach. Children are curious, enthusiastic, and want to jump into everything right away. Knowing this we can't blame them for wanting to explore what's in front of them.
Discuss the lesson in an area away from the tables such as circle time. Be thorough about the background of the lesson and your instructions, but also be aware there is a limit to how long you can keep their attention. Ten to fifteen minutes is usually adequate to cover your bases. If you've explained yourself clearly and modeled the use of all materials, the students will move into the lesson knowing exactly what they're using when and how. If you work with older children it is easier to give them instruction at the table with the expectation they will wait for the directions to get started.
Seat children that require more attention or who are younger in age together at a table. This makes it easier for you to assist them and monitor their progress. Some students will ask you to do things for them or say they can't do it. Offer to show them the steps but encourage them to complete it on their own. Explore the different ways they can do something but let it be their own accomplishment.
Children work at different paces. Some will know exactly how they want to create something and finish it right away. Others become absorbed in their work using all the time that you will allow them. Have an activity that they can move to that is fun, engages them for the moment, and allows you the opportunity to finish up with other students. Some activities that work well are:
- dry-erase boards
- books that correspond with the lesson
- free draw
- stamps
- puzzles/tangrams
- letter or shape stencils
Always end the lesson with a brief review of what they learned. Incorporate the information into a game for transition. Display the children's artwork at their height. It confirms that you value their choices and the results. It helps foster a positive self-image and confidence.
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