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PROGRAM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT * 2 HOURS * LEVEL 2

Building Community Through Circle Time
Considering Attention Levels

Page 8
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One-Year-Olds
Attention level, though based on many factors, can be estimated by developmental level. In the one-year-old class, circle time will be more effective if you have no expectations of participation. 

One-year-old children will often join you if you just sit down with a book, puppets or start singing a song. Because of their general developmental level it is unrealistic to ask this group to sit with you more than a couple of minutes at a time. This group of children will often come and go from a circle time, and this is completely appropriate.
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Two-Year-Olds
The two-year-old group will realistically last between five and ten minutes depending upon the presentation of the material and activities. This group needs a lot of movement and sensory activities to engage and learn. Singing, dancing, rhymes, short books, and hands-on learning work best. This group is easily distracted so try to reduce movement in the room by having all adults sitting in the circle. While you are presenting your material, the second adult can silently redirect behavior with a gentle touch or facial expression leaving you free to work your magic. 

The two-year-old can rarely sit still for long. They will wiggle, hug their friend, poke their friend, lie down, stand up and try to touch whatever materials you are using. Gently redirect this activity, because it is normal. Especially if the children are excited about what you are doing, this is a good thing! If you keep them moving you will have fewer behavior challenges because the children will be engaged and having a good time.