Why Are Morning Routines Important in the Classroom?

Classroom morning routines are an integral part of the day and something that is needed to get the day going on the right foot! So why are beginning-of-the-day routines essential for the classroom? Let’s take a look!

• Establishing Consistency – Morning routines provide a structured and consistent start to the school day. They help students know what to expect, which can reduce anxiety and create a sense of security.
• Time Management – Routines help students learn time management skills by allocating time for tasks like unpacking, turning in homework and preparing for the day’s lessons.
• Promoting Independence – Routines encourage students to become more independent as they learn to manage their belongings, responsibilities, and time effectively.

Social Story – Morning Routine for Kids

Transitioning from home to school in the morning can pose challenges for some children. Students may be required to put away their belongings, check in with the teacher and sit in a designated area before class begins. Teaching students what to expect and giving them opportunities to practice their morning routine will help them become familiar with expectations for the beginning of the day.

Teach Starter has created a printable mini-book to help your students learn about classroom morning routines. Each page is designed in a simple manner with real-life photographs to help students make connections and understand the examples. If you are looking to alter any of the pictures or text in this mini-book, consider using the editable version and tailor the story to fit your needs. 

The last page of the mini-book also poses a question with three picture choices for students to choose from as their answer.

How to Get Your Classroom Morning Routine Mini-Book

If you are ready to add this social story to your SEL collection, head on over to the green download button! Here, you will find the quick-print PDF option and the editable Google Slides version of this resource. If selecting the Google Slides document, please note that you will first be prompted to make a copy of the resource to your personal drive before accessing it.

After printing the pages, cut them in half, stack and staple them along the left-hand side of the mini-book.

Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and a Teach Starter collaborator, contributed to this resource.

More Resources to Begin Your Day!

Check out some of our additional resources to use with your students as they are starting their day!

teaching resource

Printable Bookmark - Morning Routine Checklist

Ensure your students start off on the right foot with this morning routine checklist bookmark!

teaching resource

Morning Greetings Display

Greet each student at the door in style with this set of 4 greetings posters.

teaching resource

Editable Morning Meeting Slides

Start your day off right with this set of 9 editable Morning Meeting slides.