classroom routines for the restroom - wash and flush

There are lots of things we can say in a day, but if I can give my kinders a visual reminder, clue or flat out visual direction... I choose that option. I find that if I can choose only to talk when its most important, then my words carry more weight. {Annnnd, they just might be more likely to actually listen to what I'm saying and process it}

This year I updated my classroom reminders to coordinate with my bright color theme and to include a chevron background. This first one is on the inside of the bathroom door to remind them before they leave.

This is the one I placed on the outside of the door as they leave.

And it took a dose of "get over yourself" as I had another teacher take pictures of me showing the routines and procedures we use. This was the first year, I had students using the bathroom signs, washing hands and knocking all on day one, so I'm giving credit to the book! Inspiration... No David! We just have two paint chips (red/green) that are stuck together with double sided stick tape. They are hole punched onto a clasp-ring on 3M hooks. This signifies if a bathroom is available or in use.

{see the whole book}

I tried to make it a little over the top since I wanted to add humor, but whatever it was... it worked!

More on Classroom Routines

Starting off the School Year Successfully
Building a Visual Schedule for the Morning Routine
Kindergartners Can Prepare their own Folders
Creating a System for Lost Tools

What are your tips and tricks to make "flush" and "wash" less of your vocabulary everyday and encourages your kinders to be more responsible?
If you like what I do here on KindergartenWorks, then be sure to subscribe today. I look forward to sharing ideas with you weekly.
- Leslie

*Free downloadable Thank You Gift included when you subscribe via email or RSS.