Best Songs for Classrooms: Transitions and Routines
We use music to manage classroom routines every day. Since we started using music during routines, we’ve enjoyed not needing to give reminders and have seen better independence, especially when students are tidying up. We’ve also noticed that our students who are triggered by being asked to transition are able to manage better. In this article you’ll find some of my favourite songs for classrooms.
Songs for a Calm Entry to the Classroom
We have relaxing music playing as students enter the classroom in the morning. Mornings can be hectic for everyone and a calming atmosphere sets the tone for the day.
Good Morning Songs for Kindergarten
During the first few weeks of school when we’re helping students learn each others’ names, we pat our knees and I sing this song with each of their names.
This is another favourite by Jeremy Fisher Jr. He has lots of great kids music.
Songs for Classrooms: Tidying Up
We only ever use one song for tidying up. Once students are into the routine, we often don’t even need to stop everyone and make an announcement because the beginning of the track says, “It’s time to tidy up!” Our class knows to tidy up and be sitting, ready to listen by the end of the song.
At the beginning of the year, we first teach how to tidy up, how to work together, and how to be ready for the next activity before playing the song. Once we feel students know the procedures, there’s often a lull in how well they tidy and how long it takes. That’s when we introduce the song as a little bit of incentive to complete the transition quickly. The song allows them a little bit of transition time between finishing what they were doing and tidying up.
Without further ado, the song that has both saved my sanity and made me question it as it’s stuck in my head on weekend mornings.
Songs for Classrooms: Relaxation After Recess
When our class comes in after recess, we have them switch their shoes, wash their hands, and then choose a place to relax (i.e., lying on the carpet, sitting in a comfortable chair). We use a projector to show videos or pictures on the ceiling with calming music. We prop it up with a block so it points upwards.
At the beginning of the year, I talk to students as they attempt to relax. I talk them through noticing how their body feels when they are calm. We practicing breathing techniques. We build stamina in being able to relax. It looks different for different students. Some students sit in comfortable chairs in which they can swing their legs. Others prefer a mat in a quiet corner of the class.
We vary the videos we show. Search terms we use on YouTube are timelapse, kaleidoscope, underwater, and slow tv. Here are a few favourites.
Songs for Those Extra 3 Minutes Between Activities
Goodbye Songs for Kindergarten
This song is great on the days when they’re a little bit antsy at the end of the day.
What are your class’ favourite songs? Have you found one that works magic as students transition? Share it in the comments!
If you’re interested in more music posts, check out this free Ukulele lesson guide for kids.
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