Moments of the day
Transitions
Transitions are often the trickiest moments of the school day. Whether students are moving from one subject to another, coming in from recess, or packing up to go home, these in-between times can easily become chaotic and stressful for both teachers and students.
Projecting a classroom screen during transitions gives students clear, consistent expectations. Visual timers, checklists, and simple instructions on the board help everyone stay calm and focused, making transitions smoother and saving precious class time.
Templates for Transitions
Pre-K (ages 3–5)
Transition time for pre-K (ages 3–5)
A calming, visual screen to help pre-K students move smoothly between activities.
Kindergarten to 2nd grade
Transition time for kindergarten–2nd grade
A ready-to-use classroom screen for smooth transitions in grades K–2, with a timer, checklist, traffic light, and friendly instructions.
Grades 3–5 (ages 8–11)
Transition time for grades 3–5
A ready-to-use screen to guide grades 3–5 through smooth, calm transitions with a timer, checklist, and clear steps.
Grades 6-8 (ages 11–14)
Transition time for grades 6–8
A ready-made transition screen for grades 6–8 with timer, checklist, and traffic light for smooth classroom changes.
Grades 9–12 (ages 14–18)
Class transitions for grades 9–12
A ready-to-use template for managing transitions in high school classes.
Why teachers like it
- Reduces noise and confusion during transitions.
- Helps students know exactly what to do next.
- Saves instructional time by keeping transitions quick and organized.
How to set it up
- 1Choose a transition screen template for your grade level.
- 2Add or adjust instructions, timers, and checklists as needed.
- 3Project the screen as students begin transitioning.
- 4Refer to the screen to guide students through each step (e.g., clean up, line up, get materials).
- 5Use the visual timer to help students see how much time remains.
Tips
- Keep transition screens simple and uncluttered for younger students.
- Use countdown timers and audio cues for students who need extra reminders.
- Involve students by letting them suggest transition steps or check off completed tasks.
Questions teachers ask
How do I pick the right transition template for my class?
Templates are organized by age group. Choose one that matches your students’ needs, and feel free to customize instructions or visuals.
Can I use transition screens for different activities?
Yes, you can create sets of screens for arrival, subject changes, recess, dismissal, and more.
Do students need devices to follow along?
No, just project the screen. Students can see the instructions and timers from anywhere in the room.