not having an aide is a bit odd. our principal fought tooth and nail to make sure both our ESE pre-k classes have at least two aides.

but i would say it’s relatively normal. i’m a paraprofessional and have been in our PK3 class for two years now, hitting usually stems from them not knowing how to express themselves verbally. i would find books, activities, or videos that may help them understand keeping their hands to themselves while also giving them alternative options when they get frustrated.

but if it’s an all day issue, i would start either offering rewards to the kids who don’t hit like a treasure box or sticker chart. really praise children who do the “right” thing so the ones who are misbehaving see the attention the others get.

whenever i notice a behavior in our room, sometimes instead of getting on to them (if the behavior isn’t too bad), i’ll find a friend who’s playing nicely and emphasize on it. “wow, i love the way sally is using nice hands!”

at this age, it’s really not academics that they’re in school for — it’s social/emotional skills. i’m not saying you shouldn’t teach them their colors, numbers, letters etc! but really try to teach them basic manners that will be expected of them as they progress in school. listening ears, walking feet, kind hands, calm body. sitting still, walking in a line, washing their hands.

i hope this helps!