Circle time is an important part of early childhood education that allows children to develop social skills through fun interactive activities done together as a group. It helps kids learn to communicate, listen, and get ready for school by nurturing skills like cooperation, attention, and self-expression. Effective circle times are planned to keep preschoolers engaged through a variety of short activities that are developmentally appropriate.

2.  What is circle time?
 Benefit of circle time for kids
 When to use circle time
 Circle time song ideas
 Best circle time activities for preschoolers and
kids
 Circle time dos
 Circle time don’ts.

4. Circle time is time for important social interactions among
young children. It helps develop positive relationship between
learners through engaging and fun activities. It also use to
address certain issues identified in the class such as too
much noise and talking during class lessons.
Preschool circle time activities keep kids occupied. It helps
them transition from one part to the next. During circle time,
the teacher sees to it that each child is given opportunity to
be involved. Children are seated in a circle either on their
chairs or the floor.
Most of the time, an object is passed around the circle to
show whose turn is to speak. Some of the activities in circle
time include musical games, cooperative games, talking and
listening exercises, drama activities and more!
Circle time is usually light and fun and has the goal of getting
children ready for learning.

6. 1. Socialization.
One of the greatest benefits a child can get
from circle time is the opportunity to socialize.
The activities are excellent ways for kids to get
along with other kids and adults. They get to
learn more about themselves as they relate to
their fellow students as well as teachers.
Nurturing a child’s social skills early on is
important. It will prepare them for kindergarten
and elementary school. It will help them in their
future academic and professional performance.

7. 2. Good practice of routine.
participating in circle time introduce young
children to concept of time through a routine.
When kids become familiar with a particular
activity, they learn about time through schedule
and routine.

8. 3. Improved listening skills.
In circle time, kids have to listen and pay
attention to their teachers and peers as
everybody takes their turn in leading the game.
Having this as a part of their daily activity helps
them develop their listening and
communication skills. They learn how to
express themselves and overcome shyness.

9. 4. Readiness for school.
Preschool is an excellent venue that prepares
young children for kindergarten and future
academic endeavors. Aside from learning about
patient and understanding of time,
preschoolers also learn about other tools they
need to be successful. Circle time in a
preschool setting increases a child’s awareness
of language, physical and sensory experiences.
They are expose to dances, new songs and
other stimuli.

10. 5. Improved fine and gross motor skills.
Participating in circle time activities helps
promote gross motor skills as it improves
coordination and rhythm. It also help develop
dexterity and agility. Especially when the
activities involve dancing and other physical
activities.

11. 6. Increased motivation for school.
Children love games and fun. Keeping circle
time fun can make children feel excited about
going to school. With exciting and interactive
games, you won’t have a hard time getting your
little ones out of the bed in the morning to get
ready for school. They will be looking forward
to it every day and love the idea of going to
school.

13. Most preschool programs have included circle
time in their daily schedule of play time
activities. For kids aged three to four years,
circle time should last only up to ten to fifteen
minutes. Depending on your teaching style,
student’s ages or class.

15. Proper planned circle time gives the right opportunity to
all preschoolers and kids to be involved in a fruitful way.
Teachers need to make sure that all kids are involved,
and every one takes turn to speak or showcase their
skills.
Here are some of the tried and proven circle time
activities that are fun and educational at the same time:
1. Finger play
2. Persona puppets
3. Reading to a group
4. Sing song
5. Jigsaws.

17.  Plan activities base on the time frame that
groups can stay focused.
 Implement active and passive activities
alternatively to keep the energy levels up
through out the circle time.
 Be prepared with what you want to share with
the class group at least one week in advance,
in other to hold the attention of learners.

18.  Don’t continue your activity even when you
observe your preschooler’s attention waning.
 don’t engage in personal discussions with
co-workers or parents while you are in circle
time zone.
 Don’t use threats of punishments or rewards
to get the attention of learners.

19. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to
share the little I have with you.
I remain my humble self, Halima Muhammad
Bala.