Scheduling the big day requires a lot of logistical gymnastics, I know. There are specials to work around and spaces to figure out, but it usually all comes together just fine! Here is what the schedule for a TYPICAL one-day visit might look like. Obviously, we will work out a detailed schedule that fits your specific needs.
| 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. | 1st and 2nd grade |
| 10:45 – 11:45 a.m. | 3rd grade |
| 11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. | Lunch plus book signings or other extra events |
| 1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. | 4th-5th grade |
| 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Kindergarten |
A few notes…
Length: Most sessions are 1 hour. Realistically, by the time kids come in and get settled, that gives me about 50 minutes of actual presentation/interaction time.
Age Range: At very small schools, I can do a K-2 and a 3-5 session. Other than that, it works best for everyone if the age range is no more than two grades. Putting 1st and 6th graders in the same session will result in a session that doesn’t work ideally for either age.
Youngest Learners: Kindergarten or preschool sessions usually consist of interactive storytime, and this is generally a shorter session. Another option is pre-K or K students can sit in on just the first 20 minutes or so of the 1st-grade session, and I will structure it so that that part is especially appealing to them. Then I can thank them at the agreed-upon time and invite them to head back to class.
Breaks: Please include 10-15 minutes between sessions, so that I can use the restroom, reset my materials, etc.
Space: I use technology on my visits and bring plenty of props. It works SO well to park me in one spot for the day and have the students come to me. If I am traveling class to class, we’ll need to build in extra time between sessions.