When trying to gain a child’s attention, say their name first, then say what you want them to do.

Clapping rhythms gains children’s attention and increases attention span.

To Gain children’s attention – change your voice inflection. Whisper, clap, snap your fingers.

Preparing children to solo in class takes a few weeks of preparation on the teachers part and the parents as well. Some indicators in the gym are: Can you get the child to be your helper in class and demonstrate stations?, Will they let you spot them on skills without the parents help? Will they stay on a carpet square and listen to some directions? If the answer is yes to these, then start preparing the parent to stay in the lobby. Have them talk about it at home and let the child know where the parent will be during class. What chair do you want them to sit in while they wait? Allow the parent to be close the first day if needed, and then move to the lobby when the child gets involved. This transition usually works when the child is 3 years old.

Of course it’s not the child’s fault they are late. Try to talk to the parent privately to see if maybe coming at a different time of day would be better, so the child gets the full time in class. He/she also will feel a better part of the group and know what the stations are. You can also do something really fun right away and let the children know they will miss it if they are late. This may light a fire under the parent who is slow to get organized.