ECE Workshop: Social-Emotional & Behaviour Guidance
Deconstructing Circle Times
What does circle time mean to you?
Come and explore all the different possibilities that group time can offer. Learn how to incorporate science, math and dramatic play experiences, embrace emergent learning opportunities, transition ideas, and build resources.
Workshop Hosted By
Julie Hansen
Early Childhood Educator, Consultant, and Author
The Reasons Why
What Does Circle/Group Time Mean to You?
- How do we define what is a circle or group time?
- What is your team’s philosophy around group times?
- Areas of curriculum that your team typically covers at circle time are
Making Circle/Group Time Inclusive
- Using props
- Activities that promote peer-to-peer interaction
- Incorporate activities that encourage the children’s participation
- Looking at your group dynamic
- Hands of opportunities
- Inquiry based learning
The Seven Principle of Circle/Group Time
- Early Literacy
- Songs and Finger Plays
- General Discovery
- Art Experiences
- Math Concepts
- Dramatic Play
- Science
Setting Group/Circle Time Up for Success
- Is the area where you are having group times distracting or overwhelming?
- Is a scheduled group time near a meal/nap time?
- Would small groups be beneficial over larger ones?

