EPISODE · Aug 5, 2026 · 20 MIN
Why Preschoolers Don't Learn Expectations By Hearing Them Once
from Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast
One of the biggest classroom management mistakes isn't having expectations. It's assuming children learned them because we explained them once.In this episode, we're talking about the difference between telling and teaching. Preschoolers don't automatically know how to line up, clean up, walk in the hallway, or participate during circle time. These are skills that must be intentionally taught through modeling, practice, coaching, and repetition.If you find yourself repeating the same directions all day, it may not be a listening problem. It may be a teaching opportunity.Topics Discussed:Why explaining a classroom expectation isn't the same as teaching itThe preschool mindset that changes how you approach behaviorWhy reminders alone don't help children master new skillsHow intentional instruction can reduce repeated corrections and build independenceRelated Resources:The First Six Weeks PlaybookWebinar: Stop Repeating Yourself All DayRelated Blogposts/Episodes:I Open Centers on Day One—But I Don't Expect IndependenceThe Preschool Framework I Use Every YearConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
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