During one of our recent circle times, our preschoolers loved this activity that included learning colors and shapes. After reading a shape book, we set the color bowls in the center of the circle. During the activity, our preschoolers identified the shapes they were given and placed them in the matching color bowl. These simple hands-on activities at circle time allow all the children to be involved at once, building self-confidence.
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Circle time is a great way to introduce concepts to our 3 year olds through group activities.
In this circle time activity, we sorted shapes by colors after reading “The Shape of Things.” 
Color bowls were placed in the center of the circle, and 3 foam shapes were given to each child.
They were then invited to come to the center of the circle (when called) to sort their shapes into the matching bowls.
The children placed their shapes in front of them.
As they did so, they told us the color and the shape, if known.
Activities such as these allow me to assess the children. By taking pictures, I can go back and look at them later and make notes in my assessment binder. This helps greatly when it is time to do evaluations.
Group activities promote awareness of a community. Everyone is working together on the same activity. They are learning how to come forward and share. They are learning to help each other when solving problems. They are listening to each other.
When planning circle time activities, we make sure they are not too long. For 3 year olds, we keep each group time under 15 minutes. For this reason, we have 3 or even 4 separate circle times during our 3 hours. Our first circle time is after all the children arrive. This is when we say good morning and introduce the materials we will be using. Our second circle time is before snack, when our class helper reports the weather and we do a group activity. Our third circle time is after snack, as we are transitioning to leave for the gym. We use this time to sing songs and do finger plays. Our last circle time is when we return from the gym and need to calm our bodies down. This is when one of the teachers will read a story.
A successful circle time is when the children are engaged.
What I love most is how excited the children are to participate. It is presented in a fun way. When we are finished, the children like to look at the end result. They know that together they made it happen. Collaboration. “Team work”, as they like to say.
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I have been looking to change my circle time up but haven’t really felt like I know what direction to go in. Thanks for sharing.
You have made it so simple and easy and I also liked the way you have organised three or four circle times thanks for sharing
Thanks for sharing. Where did you get the color bowls?