In this episode, we’re diving into the heart of every early childhood classroom and learning space—circle time!

Susie talks to Jacky Sheppard, Early Years Consultant, about how to turn this daily routine into a powerful moment of connection, learning, and joy through creative music and movement activities and imaginative storytelling.

As an educator, you'll walk away with fresh, playful ideasto keep little ones engaged and excited to participate. From fingerplays and movement songs that boost coordination to storytelling that sparks curiosity and language development, you’ll learn how to transform circle time into a magical experience filled with inquiry, discovery, and exploration.

Get ready to sing, move, and make some circle time memories!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Circle Time

02:58 Why is Circle Time Important in the Early Years

06:00 Components of a Successful Circle Time

09:12 Benefits of Circle Time for Transitions

11:42 Spontaneous Circles

14:50 Music and Movement Ideas

21:27 Storytelling Ideas

29:14 Susie’s reflection and takeaways

About Jacky Sheppard

With over 45 years of experience in early childhoodeducation, Jacky Sheppard is a trailblazer and passionate advocate for high-quality child care. As the visionary behind the Streetsville Children’s Centre and Streetsville Academy, she has dedicated a lifetime to nurturing young minds and supporting families.

An influential voice in the industry, Jacky serves on the Executive of the Private Daycare Operators Group and is an active member of the Education Minister Advisory Committee, where she champions policies that put childrenfirst. In addition to operating outstanding child care centres, she consults and trains early childhood educators, equipping the next generation of professionals with the tools and inspiration they need to thrive. She continues to shape the future of early learning through advocacy, mentorship, and asteadfast commitment to excellence in early years education.

If you would like to book a workshop with Susie and Jacky, visit www.susiebeghin.com for more information.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA