Circle Time provides a regular routine for students to explore their own feelings and the feelings of others. Students have the opportunity to listen to peers, share opinions and listen to the thoughts of others. This allows for the collective circle members to deepen their thinking and connection to one another.

Circle Time is connected to Restorative Practices. It is not a disciplinary measure but a proactive relationship building experience that develops trust and community. This ensures that when issues that cause relationships break down to arise, and restorative conversations are required, there is relationship to be restored.

Circle Time gives every student a voice every day, empowering them to be active contributors to the learning community of their classroom.

Benefits of Circle Time

What are some of the benefits of circle time?

• Improved speaking and listening skills
• Increased self-esteem
• A sense of belonging/class community
• An understanding of how their behaviour impacts others
• Improved problem-solving skills
• Improved emotional intelligence
• A sense of responsibility
• Improved relationships between children, their peers and their teacher

Example Circle Time prompts:

Circle Time expectations: