In this week's episode of Elevating Early Childhood, I discuss something suuuper important: Circle time!

As you know, circle time is pretty crucial in pre-k, and having a successful and effective one can be difficult.

Why? Simply because most children have short attention spans, which means keeping them focused on circle time can be quite the complex task.

But, I'm here to help! 

Which is why, first things first, I want you to know that, when it comes to circle time, working smarter, not harder, is the solution.

What does that entail, exactly?

Tune in right now to find out!

Key Takeaways:

Why is it difficult to have a successful circle time? (00:00)

Ingredient #1: Understanding young children's attention spans (03:03)

Ingredient #2: Balancing active and passive during circle time (04:24)

Ingredient #3: Have all your materials prepared in advance (06:40)

What to do when your students don't listen during circle time (08:12)

How to fit everything during circle time (09:42)

What to do if your students don't participate (13:44)

Component #1: The picture schedule (17:28)

Component #2: Taking attendance (18:15)

Component #3: Story of the day (20:12)

Component #4: A participatory song (21:29)

Component #5: Review your schedule (21:43)

Additional Resources:

- Visit our website to find tons of pre-K teaching resources here.

- Get my book “Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers”.

- Learn more about my exclusive mentorship program, “Teaching Trailblazers”.

- For some preschool morning meeting ideas, click here.

- For more preschool circle time tips, click here.

- Click here for preschool circle time song ideas.

- Get your rectangular Editable Picture Schedule Cards here.

- Get square Editable Picture Schedule Cards, click here.

Elevating Early Childhood is an early education podcast dedicated to helping Pre-K, Preschool, and Kindergarten teachers teach better, save time, and live more.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

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Onward & Upward!

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Teaching Trailblazers

Teach Smarter: Literacy Strategies for Early Childhood Teachers