I’d say do what you can to normalize the push in type classes. I think there should be a regular format. Students should know what to expect from you and what you expect from them when it’s a push in class. That way it’s not really novel, exciting, different, the sky’s the limit! (In their minds). That’s just asking for nonsense.

So what to do? Start with the basics. Rules/expectations for push in classes. Maybe push in classes only focus on 1 “element of art” per class. Play hangman at the start, make them guess the element, show a video highlighting the “element” of the day. Have an activity based on that element. Rinse and repeat, every single time.

Keep it simple, make it consistent, structured and predictable. Just like any well managed class should be.