When the author arrives at the school let student guides show him or her the work they've put up on the walls. Have a group of students welcome the author with a poem or school cheer. I'll never forget the day I arrived at Jody Bolla's classroom in North Miami. In addition, I've been welcomed by all the methods mentioned in the previous paragraphs. Not only does a great welcome make the author feel good and want to give a great performance, it also makes the students and teachers enthusiastic about the visit and more likely to be a good audience.
Little things can add to or detract from the productivity of the author's visit.
Have them ready when the author arrives. Have coffee, water, or pop available, if needed, to keep the author's throat lubricated. Plan enough time between presentations for a toilet break or simply to recharge the author's emotional batteries. Have the teachers monitor their students so they can take preventive action to make sure the students' behavior won't get out of hand. Plan a 45 minute lunch break at a local restaurant to help break up the day and restore the author's energy.