Who's Here Today?

A Who’s Here Today? Visual check-in supports students in understanding attendance daily routines.

When to Use: 

• Morning routines - Used at the beginning of the school day as students enter the classroom or during morning meetings.
• Social awareness - Helps students recognize who is present and who is absent.
• Reducing anxiety - Provides reassurance when students ask about the location of peers or staff members.

How to Use:

• Set Up the Visual Display - Decide whether to include only students or both students and staff.
• Student Participation - Have students move their own picture from “Home” to “School” upon arrival. Guide them in transitioning their pictures and engaging in conversations about attendance.
• Facilitate Discussions - Use the display to communicate about absent peers or staff (e.g., “James is at home today. He will be back tomorrow!”). Encourage students to ask and answer questions about who is present and who is absent.
• Integrate into Routine - Make the check-in part of the daily schedule to encourage consistency.

Tips: 

• Use Real Photos - Personalize the board with actual student and staff pictures for increased recognition.
• Pair with a Visual Schedule - Help students connect attendance with daily activities.
• Provide Alternative Participation - For students with mobility or communication challenges, use assistive technology or allow a peer to move their picture.

Variations: 

• Digital Check-In - Use interactive whiteboards or tablets for attendance tracking.
• Individual Check-In Charts - Provide personal check-in boards for students who need additional structure.
• Classroom Jobs - Assign a student helper to facilitate the check-in process each day.
• Expanded Use - Use the system to track staff attendance, special visitors, or group transitions throughout the day.