What went wrong?
During an art activity, the teacher steps out briefly to grab more supplies, leaving the assistant with 12 children. While she’s gone, two children begin painting each other’s clothes.
There was insufficient supervision—leaving the room without ensuring proper coverage led to inappropriate behavior.
You notice a student has quickly minimized a screen when you walk by.
What would you do?
Ask to see the screen, review their activity, and remind them of digital expectations — while staying aware of other students' screens and behavior.
How should staff position themselves?
Where they can see the whole group clearly.
A student leaves the line during transition without permission. What would you do?
Stop them calmly and guide them back to the group.
You’re a shy child who wants to join a game, but the supervising adult is focused on other kids and doesn’t notice you.
You might feel invisible or ignored, so staff should scan carefully and include all students.
During recess, a group starts rough play behind a slide while the staff talks to another adult. What went Wrong?
The staff wasn’t scanning or positioned to see all areas, especially hidden spots.
During free play, two students are playing tag and bump into others who are trying to play basketball.
What would you do?
Stop the unsafe play, redirect them to an appropriate area, and review gym rules to ensure safety and structure.
What is active supervision?
Actively watching and interacting with students to keep them safe.
You notice a child looking upset and sitting alone during snack time. What would you do?
Check in quietly and offer support.
You’re playing on the playground, but the adult supervising is sitting far away and not watching the equipment area.
You might take risks or feel unsafe; supervisors should circulate and maintain proximity.
While lining up to leave, the staff faces the front of the line only. Students in the back push each other. What went Wrong?
The staff didn’t position themselves to see the whole group.
You’re supervising a group, but another staff member tries to start a long personal conversation.
What would you do?
Politely redirect the conversation for later and stay focused on scanning and circulating around the students.
How can technology affect active supervision?
Avoid distractions from phones or devices; prioritize watching students over personal tasks.
A child is wandering away from the group during a field trip. What would you do?
Approach quickly, remind them to stay with the group, and hold their hand if needed.
You see two students arguing, but the adult nearby is distracted and doesn’t step in.
You might feel unsupported or scared; staff should stay alert and intervene early.
In the game room, students begin arguing loudly over the Xbox controller while the staff is seated using their phone. What went wrong?
The staff was distracted and not actively engaging or monitoring behavior.
Multiple parents arrive at once. While signing out a student, you notice another student trying to walk out with someone you don’t recognize.
What would you do?
Politely stop the student, confirm pickup authorization, and do not allow them to leave until verified — all while alerting another staff member if needed for coverage.
How to improve active supervision?
Train regularly and reflect on your practices.
A child seems withdrawn and isn’t participating in group activities. what would you do?
Check in privately to see if they need support or encouragement.
You’re confused about where to line up during transition because the adult didn’t give clear instructions or position themselves visibly.
Answer:
You might feel lost or frustrated; staff should give clear directions and position themselves where all can see.
At dismissal, parents arrive at different doors. A staff member leaves their assigned area briefly to assist another. During that time, a student leaves with an unauthorized adult. What went wrong?
The staff member left their assigned post during a critical transition time, which led to a gap in supervision and a serious safety breach.
Students are walking quietly in line, but one student lingers behind and pulls out a phone.
What would you do?
Gently remind the student of the no-phone policy during transitions and keep scanning the group to maintain order.
Why is communication important among staff?
To cover all areas and respond effectively.
A student spills water near electrical outlets. What would you?
Secure the area, clean up immediately, and remind students about safety.
You want to use a toy, but the supervising adult doesn’t notice the conflict brewing between you and another child.
You might get upset or act out; supervisors should scan for signs of conflict and step in.