The children’s day should consist of Whole Group, Small Group, and Individual experiences.

Everybody Goes when the Whistle Blows! – Whole Group is the time when the entire Learning Community participates in a common activity.  This can be at Circle Time or for Music, Movement, Art, work on a special project, Meal and Snack Times, or gathering for reading.  Enrichment activities are usually Whole Group activities as well as whole class outdoor games, walks, or field trips.

Whole Group experiences increase skills of community, cooperation, interest and eagerness to participate as well as practicing direction following and listening skills.   

When doing an indoor Whole Group activity, teachers must pay attention to space and safety assuring that all community members can fit comfortably, move comfortably, sit comfortably, and can see and hear with ease.  If a Whole Group activity is happening outside the classroom, safety is the biggest issue with careful supervision being the ultimate concern. 

Developmentally Speaking (of course) – Toddlers and Twos can handle only fairly short periods of Whole Group, (5 – 10 minutes is just fine) and Threes, Fours, and Fives generally enjoy it if the experience is interesting and right for them. Just like Circle Time, watch your audience for signs that interest has waned. Like a good preacher, find the right stopping place. Amen!

When doing an indoor Whole Group activity, teachers need to pay attention to space and safety assuring that all community members can fit comfortably, move comfortably, sit comfortably, and can see and hear with ease.  If a Whole Group activity is happening outside, safety is the biggest issue with careful supervision being the ultimate concern. 

Teachers provide the learning experiences and must also participate in them.  On the playground or in the Enrichment class, teachers should be active participants whenever possible. Teachers should also encourage, but not force participation from reluctant children.

I Don’t Want to Play! – Some children do not feel comfortable with whole group activities. Do NOT label nonparticipants “Shy” or “Stubborn”.  Labeling of this sort is unprofessional, often becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy – and it’s mean! Don’t make a big deal of a child’s reluctance to join in.  Instead of saying, “look at your friends – they’re all playing” try “maybe you’ll join us tomorrow”, and then concentrate on the experience for the rest of the group.

Next Blog: Small Group and Individual Work Times