# 117. Minimizing Disruptions During Kindergarten Small Groups

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Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/kindergarten-cafe-podcast-simple-tips-for-teaching-kindergarten-6572540/117-minimizing-disruptions-during-kindergarten-small-groups.md
Podcast: [Kindergarten Cafe Podcast: Simple Tips for Teaching Kindergarten](https://stenobird.com/podcast/kindergarten-cafe-podcast-simple-tips-for-teaching-kindergarten-6572540)
Published: 2026-01-15T08:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://kindergarten-cafe.captivate.fm
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f175c6ba-9541-45fe-af28-46a8b3678524.mp3
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Duration seconds: 804

## Resource

One of the most common questions I get from teachers is: "How do I keep the rest of the class under control while I’m teaching small groups?" If you’re trying to pour into a handful of kids at your table, but out of the corner of your eye, you see three students arguing over a marker, two more asking for help, and someone else who’s supposed to be reading… I’m walking you through what actually works to maintain classroom management while you're leading small groups in kindergarten. In this episode I share: Don’t start small groups until routines are solid Teach “Ask 3 before me” early Plan predictable, engaging independent work Avoid pairing off-task kids together Make it clear you’re not available during groups Keep groups short - 10 minutes max Do room checks between groups Talk about issues afterward, not during Send Zeba a voice message Related Episodes: How to Effectively Manage Kindergarten Math Centers ~ Ep. 71 Building Effective Literacy Centers with the Science of Reading ~ Ep. 78 Teaching Problem-Solving Skills with Young Students ~ Ep. 57 Learn More: Workshop: Literacy, Math, and Centers… Oh My! Resources: Kindergarten Writing Support for Beginning Writers | Small Groups Kindergarten Math for the WHOLE YEAR Teaching Kids to Be Independent: A Social Emotional Learning Unit Connect with Zeba: Instagram - @kindergartencafe Facebook - @kindergartencafe Website - www.kindergartencafe.org Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe Mentioned in this episode: Kindergarten Essentials Grab the year-long, mega-bundle kindergarten activities here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Teacher-Essentials-Year-Long-Mega-Bundle-Kindergarten-Activities-8356704

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