Some of the centers that you may have in your classroom are more popular than others, as shown by the number of students running to get to that center first. You can control the number of students per center by this simple method. Get enough coat hangers to have one for each center and indicate on the the hanger the name of the center as well as the maximum number of students allowed. Post the hanger in a convenient place you can then hang from the ceiling. Give each student a clothespin and write their name on it--they have fun decorating these! The students can keep their clothespins attached to their center folders and as they choose a center, they attach the clothespin to the hanger. This is a good way for them to know if there is enough room at the center. It is also a good way for you to know which student is at which center.