John:

Think of something you do every day as a teacher or principal—rain or shine, inside and out.

Chances are you do a lot of shepherding and managing groups—moving kids from one place to the next, getting their attention to learn a new concept or game, or transitioning them through the hundreds of different moments during each school day.

If managing groups of kids isn't the reason you get out of bed in the morning—you're not alone!—it comes with the territory. At Recess Lab, we want to share our discoveries about what works (and what doesn't), so we can learn from each other.

Start with these four strategies and games for extra support when it comes to managing groups:

#1: Get creative with secret handshakes and build rapport
One-on-one conversations, silly claps, cheers, get-to-know-you games, compliments, and showing appreciation are great ways to build rapport and mutual respect that influence positive group behavior.

#2: Set clear boundaries and stick to them
Kids do best when they know what's expected of them, what the rules and consequences are, and when they see adults following through.

#3: Show, don't tell 
Just like adults, kids have different learning styles: Visual, Aural, Verbal, Physical, Logical, Social, Solitary. Try to incorporate as many as you can—for instance, don't just say the instructions out loud, show what you mean with movement.

#4: Use attention getters and signals
Creative attention getters are fun and practical. Signals can be any sound or body movement that indicates an action—a whistle, clapping, two fingers raised, or a verbal cue.

Check out seven silly claps and two get-to-know-you games we like—Move Your Booty and If You Really Knew Me—and then try them out with your kids this week.

Have fun!

Your Recess Lab Team