Circle Time Tips

What Should Be Included in Circle Time (Morning Meeting)?

Circle time, often called morning meeting, is one of the most important of the preschool day. It sets the tone, helps children feel connected, and builds a rhythm that is supportive of both academic growth and social-emotional development. More than just a routine, circle time is an intentional gathering where children grow socially, emotionally, cognitively, and linguistically. It creates space for meaningful interactions and lays a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

For circle time to be truly impactful, it should be joyful, engaging, and interactive. By weaving in songs, movement, play, and hands-on activities, teachers can capture children’s attention while integrating God’s Word into everyday learning. When done well, circle time becomes a sacred opportunity to remind children of God’s presence in their day.

1. Welcome and Greeting

Start the morning by warmly welcoming each child by name. This could be as simple as, “Good morning, [child’s name], we’re so glad you’re here!” Or try fun greetings like handshakes, high-fives, or a cheerful welcome song. Giving children the chance to feel seen and valued helps them start the day with confidence and joy.

2. Bible Story or Devotion

Integrating God’s Word into circle time grounds the day in truth. Choose a Bible story, memory verse, or devotion that ties into your weekly theme. “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching” (2 Timothy 3:16). This helps children see that the Bible is alive and relevant every day. Check out Bible Resources from Pre K God's Way.

3. Songs and Movement / Praise and Worship

Music brings joy and keeps young learners engaged. Mix in both classic preschool songs and praise songs, adding hand motions, scarves, or simple instruments for extra fun. Singing praises reminds children of God’s goodness. You can find music and movement resources designed to combine faith and fun in the Pre K God’s Way Curriculum Bundles.

4. Theme or Academic Focus

Circle time is the perfect time to introduce or review the weekly theme. This might include a short storybook, a science observation, or an activity that connects to another learning domain. Remind children that God is the source of all knowledge and discovery. Check out Learning Themes from Pre K God's Way here.

5. Storytime / Read-Aloud

Reading aloud fosters imagination, language, and social-emotional development. It introduces children to new vocabulary, sentence structures, and storytelling techniques. Storytime also strengthens bonds between teachers and students while opening doors to big ideas and new worlds.

6. Preview the Day’s Activities

“Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). Children thrive when they know what to expect. Use circle time to walk through the day’s schedule with a visual chart or simple words. Previewing the day sets clear expectations, reduces anxiety, and builds excitement for what’s ahead—whether it’s art, outdoor play, or a special Bible lesson.

7. Sharing Time

Invite children to share something simple: how they’re feeling, what they did at home, or their response to a “question of the day.” This is also a great time to build character education and social-emotional skills. “Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

8. Prayer

Close circle time with prayer. This could be teacher-led or invite children to share short prayers of thanks. Prayer centers the classroom on Christ and reminds children of God’s love.

Now that we know what should be included in circle time, here are

Things to Avoid During Circle Time

Preschool circle time is most effective when it is flexible, engaging, and child-centered.

• Avoid overly rigid lesson plans; pay attention to children’s attention spans and adjust activities as needed. If focus starts to wane, use a quick transition technique such as a movement activity or song to re-engage students.

• Avoid assigning fixed seating. Let children choose where they sit, offering gentle guidance if needed. Consistency and teacher presence are essential, so avoid leaving the circle to speak with a colleague or parent, which can disrupt focus and engagement.

• Finally, avoid using threats or rewards to gain attention—these can make circle time feel like a task rather than a joyful learning experience.

Final Thoughts

Keep Time in Mind

Young children have limited attention spans. Keep circle time focused and manageable. If focus is hard before snack, consider moving it afterward when children are calmer. Aim for quality, not length.

Create Routine

Children thrive on predictability. Establish a consistent time and flow for circle time. Start with a familiar song or activity to create comfort and confidence.

Transition with Purpose

Some days will flow smoothly, while others may feel challenging. Use transition activities—like a hopping-and-counting game, “Simon Says,” or a short song—to help children shift into circle time with ease.

Circle time is more than a routine—it’s a special time to connect, inspire, and nurture hearts toward Christ. Each moment spent in songs, stories, prayer, and interactive activities models love, kindness, and faith in action. When mornings are intentional, joyful, and faith-filled, children begin their day knowing they are loved, valued, and ready to learn. These experiences lay the foundation for lifelong curiosity, confidence, and a heart open to God’s Word. For teachers looking for ready-to-use Bible lessons, activities, and circle time tools, Pre K God’s Way offers resources designed to make every morning meaningful and Christ-centered. Teaching with Love, and Learning with Fun!