Assembly Time — 10–20 Minutes

Assembly Time is a short, site-specific group gathering that provides students with a collaborative and engaging part of their day. It’s an opportunity to build community, reinforce program values, and set a positive tone. 

✅ What to Expect

• Assembly duration and structure will vary by site (typically 10–20 minutes).

• Activities may include:

  • Movement or Mindfulness activities

  • Trivia or joke of the day

  • Games or challenges

  • Daily announcements
    
    

✅ Staff Expectations

• Assembly will likely be led by the Site Coordinator.

• Leaders must be present and actively supporting:

  • Help keep students quiet and focused

  • Monitor behavior and encourage respect

  • Reinforce positive participation

• Be a positive role model by showing enthusiasm and engagement. This is not a time to chat with your coworkers.

⭐ Positive Reinforcement Opportunity

At some sites, Assembly Time is also used for:

• • Shout-outs to students or groups demonstrating positive behavior

  • Group points to encourage teamwork and respectful conduct

Transitions help move children from one activity to another

• Be prepared for the transition. Behavior issues are more likely to occur when children are waiting for the staff to transition the group. When transitions are slow and not clear, children are unsure what they should be doing at the time, resulting in restless children who might choose to do something they shouldn't. 

• It is important to have everyone’s attention and to transition quickly. Using attention getters will give the children a cue to direct their full attention to the staff. Do not continue with instruction until the group is quiet and ready to listen.

• Children respond well to transitions when they know what to expect. Let children know the activity is coming to an end; start with a 10 minute warning; 5 minute; 4,3,2,1. 

• Ways to gain the children’s attention for transitions

  • Verbal cue- 1,2,3 eyes on me; 1,2 eyes on you; repeat after me

  • Audio tool- bell, music, clapping pattern

  • Visual cue- flick light switch on and off

• Sometimes a coworker will have trouble gaining the group’s attention. Staff are expected to assist and support each other, including addressing behaviors.

Physical Transitions 

When moving between areas on campus, keep the following in mind.

• Walk in hallways

• Inside voices- Respect that teachers are still working or in meetings on campus

• No bouncing balls in hallways or against walls