Why do we need circle time?
The children need some time at the beginning of the lesson to settle in, talk, and play.
You can review concepts such as calendar/time/weather or introduce a new topic.
It is easier to see and hear each other. You can see what the children are communicating by non-verbal means.
It encourages self-discipline.
How can you plan an effective circle time?
Have a clear beginning, a focused middle, and a positive closure.
Make sure the children know where they are supposed to sit down. You can draw a chalk circle on the floor, use cushions or little sitter spots.
If you need to move the furniture, plan where the tables/chairs are going to go, who is going to move what to where, and how to put it all back together at the end.
Once the children are in a circle, revise the classroom rules. Keep the number of rules to a minimum. Express them in the positive language (telling the children what they shouldn’t do is of little use) and use inclusive language (“In our classroom we…”).
Circle Time is a good moment to talk about feelings. Provide the children with the vocabulary of “feeling” words and help them to relate these words to the sensations and behaviour that each feeling generates.
Once you identify your students’ general mood, you might play some dynamic games or opt for calming activities.
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