What Do Pre-K, Kindergarten & 1st Grade Teachers Do at the End of the Day?

Let’s be honest… by the end of the day, we’re ALL ready to head home, kick off our shoes, and recharge! But a few simple steps before you turn off the lights can make your next school day feel smooth and stress-free. Wondering what I do at the end of the day to get ready for tomorrow? Here’s my tried-and-true end-of-day teacher routine that keeps my classroom running like magic.

Clean-Up Crew: Little Helpers Save The Day!

Yes, even your little learners can help tidy up! Spend the last 5 minutes of the day having your students help clean up centers, pick up scraps from the floor, and push in their chairs. Not only does this teach responsibility, but it gives you a head start on classroom cleanup. Win-win!

@kindergarten_chaos

Here is a quick tip for getting those laminated recording sheets clean!🧽🧼Do you have any tips for getting laminated activities clean?💬Leave them here, so we can all learn! #kindergartenchaos #kindergarten #teachertips #teacherhacks

♬ original sound – Kindergarten Chaos

Set the Stage with Tomorrow’s Morning Work

Before you head out, prep your morning bins, fine motor tubs, or simple worksheets. Having these activities ready to greet your kindergarteners in the morning means fewer questions and a calmer start to your day. Morning work is a teacher’s secret weapon for smooth transitions! (Morning Bins In Kindergarten: A Must Have Routine For A Calm Start has more information to start your day off smoothly.)

Teacher Table Check: Stay Organized!

Take a few minutes to reset your teacher area. Restock small group supplies like markers, dry erase boards, and manipulatives. Lay out any anchor charts, books, or lesson materials you’ll need. An organized teacher table = a more focused you. (Check out this previous blog for more info-Organizing All Things: Kindergarten Teacher Edition)

Peek at Tomorrow’s Lesson Plans

Nothing feels better than knowing you’re prepared! Look over your plans and double-check materials for math centers, literacy stations, or tomorrow’s scheduled events. Do you need to print anything? Prep now and avoid morning panic.

Communicate and Connect with Families

Take a moment to update your parent communication. Whether using printed notes, folders, or apps, make sure reminders, announcements, and student work are ready to go home. This builds strong connections with your classroom families. (Technology to Communicate with Grown-Ups of Your Students)

Reflect, Reset, and Breathe!

Quickly jot down a note about what went well or what you need to tweak for tomorrow. Clearing your desk, straightening your space, and mentally closing out the day helps you walk out feeling accomplished and ready to do it all again.

Why Does This Matter?

Starting your next day in a clean, prepped classroom sets you up for less chaos and more teaching joy! Whether you’re a Pre-K teacher, Kindergarten teacher, 1st grade teacher, or homeschooling, this simple after-school routine can make a BIG difference.

---