In the round

Circle time is a group approach to learning moral values and social, emotional and behavioural skills. Children and adults work together to solve problems and raise one another's self-esteem and each individual contributes to the group and feels supported by other members. This helps everyone to work together as a team that celebrates difference in others and respects their values and beliefs.

The aim of circle time is to nurture the social and emotional growth of each child while increasing their empathetic understanding of other people's viewpoints. It is a democratic listening system designed to enhance children's sense of safety by offering them the opportunity to discuss their concerns and to practise pro-social behaviour in an enjoyable and stimulating way. In doing so, it encourages the development of effective communication and reduces anxiety and social isolation. The effect of regular circle meetings is that the children are emotionally strengthened and so are better able to cope with the stresses and strains of life.