​2026 Native American Child and Family Conference

Circle Time: Engaging Practices

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Circle Time can be one of the most joyful moments of the day—but for many educators, it can also be one of the most stressful to plan and implement. This session reimagines Circle Time/Whole Group experiences as dynamic, responsive, and developmentally meaningful opportunities for learning and connection. Participants will explore a wide range of engaging practices that integrate science, math, dramatic play, language, and emergent learning in ways that honor children’s curiosity and support their sense of belonging. Grounded in evidence-based early childhood approaches, this session highlights innovative strategies to make group time more interactive, culturally responsive, and relationship-centered. Educators will leave with practical tools, adaptable lesson ideas, and simple routines they can implement immediately in their classrooms. The session emphasizes building strong educator-child relationships, elevating joy and engagement, and supporting the whole child through intentional group experiences. Attendees will gain a renewed understanding of Circle Time as a powerful space for connection, exploration, and community—while also reducing their own planning stress and increasing classroom success.