Circle Time: The Importance of Planning

If you are employed in a state that uses a registry to track professional development hours, you will be able to provide your registry ID (Stars, MOPID, Registry or other ECE ID#) after you have completed the quiz for the course. If you pass the quiz we will report your course completion to the state registry using the registry ID that you provide.

Discover effective strategies for planning and leading engaging circle time and small group experiences in early childhood classrooms. Designed for early childhood professionals working with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarten children, this online, self-paced course explores the purpose of circle time, flexible routines, transitions, and age-appropriate activities that promote learning and participation. Through practical examples and interactive lessons, participants will gain the confidence to create meaningful group experiences that support children’s development, attention, and sense of community. Course length  – 2.0 hours.

The course answers the following questions:

• Should every classroom do circle time every day?

• What elements need to be included in circle time?

• Should circle time be the same each day?

• How can I be flexible and yet keep with my routine?

• What are some ways to keep the children’s attention during circle time?

• How do I transition into circle time?

• When is the best time of day for circle time?

• Should I introduce a foreign language in circle time?

• Do I have to do weather and calendar in circle time?

There are no prerequisites for this course.

Participants who successfully complete this course will be able to:

• Identify the key parts of an effective circle time routine.

• Describe strategies for making circle time engaging, flexible, and developmentally appropriate.

• Create an age-appropriate circle time plan with engaging activities and smooth transitions.