I would like to create some stations that are used at certain times during the day but I am not sure how to go about this. I never worked in a school or in a daycare centre so I am looking for some feedback on how this is usually done.

My space is set up pretty open and the kids have a structured day with lot's of free play. I am intrigued by the idea that certain toys are played with at certain times. My old b and a kid had mentioned this once when talking about his day that he had a hard time because he was only allowed to play with the blue centres and he had really wanted to play with a red centre. The reason I am interested is that I find my kids don't do a lot of art or crafts unless I initiate an activity. My "art centre" is just a table as I have been scared to leave supplies there at the ready (I have "marker eaters" and I am worried about everything everywhere.)

For example we do playdo if I ask "who wants to play playdo?" then it gets brought out. Or "who wants to do a craft" and we do one. There isn't a set time for anything. If I see them getting crazy I hand out quiet puzzles and have them go and do them. i just think if this was more structured then they could be more independent at initiating the activities? I have mostly 3/4 y o's but I do have a 2 yo, 22 mos old and a 14 mos old. Thoughts?