Texas Preschool Lesson Planning: Simple Daily Schedules That Work - post

Planning for preschool in Texas does not have to feel huge. A simple daily plan can mix #playbasedlearning with real learning goals, help children feel safe, and help your team stay calm and organized. When your schedule is clear, it is also easier to show families and licensing staff what children are learning. #Texas #preschool

 Why do Texas preschool lesson plans matter?

A daily plan helps you teach on purpose (without planning every minute).

• Children do better with routines they can predict.

• Teachers save time when materials are ready.

• Licensing and families often want to see a clear routine and learning activities.

Quick note: rules can change, and program types differ. Always check Texas “Minimum Standards” that match your setting.

What should a simple Texas daily schedule include?

Think in big blocks, not tiny minutes. Most preschool days include:

• Arrival & greetings

• Circle time (short + active)

• Learning centers / free play

• Small groups

• Outdoor play

• Meals/snack

• Rest/quiet time (if your program has it)

• Closing / pick-up

Try this 5-step planning routine

1. Pick your big blocks (arrival, circle, centers, small group, outdoor, closing).

2. Choose a weekly theme (weather, animals, community helpers, feelings).

3. Plan 2 “must-do” activities each day:

   • 1 art or sensory

   • 1 math, science, or STEAM

4. Prep a “week basket” (books, props, center add-ons, art supplies).

5. Repeat favorites 2 times a week—kids learn from repetition.

If you’re new to Texas child care or want a strong refresher, this Texas-approved course covers key areas (including planning and curriculum): https://www.childcareed.com/courses-24-hour-texas-pre-service.html

What daily activities help children learn through play?

Try to rotate activity types across the day. Each one builds different skills.

• Art & sensory: painting, play dough, collage, sensory bins

• Circle time: songs, short stories, puppets, “mystery bag” props

• Math & science: counting, measuring, building, simple experiments

• Social-emotional learning: sharing practice, feelings chart, role play

• Outdoor play: games, nature walks, chalk letters and shapes

Quick planning helper: Put your weekly activities in one simple template like the Preschool Weekly Lesson Plan Template: https://www.childcareed.com/r-00242-preschool-weekly-lesson-plan-template.html

How can I make circle time work (without losing attention)?

Circle time is best when it is short, interactive, and full of movement. #lessonplans

Try this easy flow:

• Hello song + names (active)

• Theme picture or object (quiet)

• Movement break (active)

• Short story or poem (quiet)

• Closing chant + transition job (active)

Time tip: Keep it around 10–20 minutes for preschool, and add movement every few minutes.

How do I support dual language learners in Texas classrooms?

Use simple supports that help children understand—even if they are still learning English.

• Add pictures for the schedule and centers

• Use gestures and real objects during lessons

• Give extra wait time after questions

• Learn a few home-language key words (hello, stop, help, bathroom)

• Repeat important words in short phrases

Remember: children can show learning in any language. Write down what you see them do.

How do I use observation (without making planning harder)?

Keep it quick. Use a “tiny notes” system.

• Pick 1–2 children per day to observe during centers

• Write one short note per child:

  • “Counted 1–5 with blocks”

  • “Asked a friend to play”

  • “Used new words during story time”

Then adjust tomorrow:

• Repeat a game children loved

• Add more small-group support where needed

• Change a center that is not working

What are common planning mistakes (and easy fixes)?

These are the ones that make days harder than they need to be:

• Mistake: Planning every minute

  • Fix: Plan big blocks + 2 key activities (morning and afternoon)

• Mistake: Materials aren’t ready

  • Fix: Prep a “week basket” so you can grab-and-go

• Mistake: Circle time is too long

  • Fix: Shorten it and add movement often

• Mistake: One activity doesn’t fit all children

  • Fix: Offer 3 levels:

    • Explore (touch, try, notice)

    • Practice (repeat with support)

    • Create (make something new)

How can I match lesson planning to Texas training expectations?

Texas training guidance often includes topics like child development, guidance, age-appropriate curriculum, and safe care.
The easiest way to stay ready is to keep your daily plan simple, written, and consistent.

Two Texas-friendly course options many programs use for required hours include:

• Texas pre-service: https://www.childcareed.com/courses-16-hour-texas-pre-service.html

• Texas annual training hours: https://www.childcareed.com/courses-24-hour-texas-teacher-annual-online.html

FAQ: What do teachers ask most about Texas lesson plans?

• How many activities should I plan each day?
  Plan 3–5 simple activities plus centers, free play, and outdoor time.

• Do I need written plans?
  Written plans help with teamwork, family communication, and licensing check-ins.

• Where can I learn Texas training requirements?
  Start here: https://www.childcareed.com/a/texas-child-care-training-requirements.html

What can I do tomorrow to make planning easier?

1. Write your day in big blocks (arrival, circle, centers, outdoor, closing).

2. Choose a theme and plan two key activities (art/sensory + math/science).

3. Use a simple template to organize your week: https://www.childcareed.com/r-00242-preschool-weekly-lesson-plan-template.html

4. Keep circle time short, active, and predictable.