Toddler Circle Time Activities for the Montessori Classroom

Circle time (also called “line time”) in the Montessori classroom is a time for toddlers to develop their listening skills, learn new vocabulary, practice language skills, practice following directions, build self-confidence, and learn about being a member of a community.

The morning begins with children working with the Montessori materials. The two Montessori teachers in the classroom are busy with demonstrations and lessons, keeping a watchful eye on the children as they are working. As circle time approaches, one teacher quietly moves to the audio player to turn on a song that signals it is time for the children to clean up. She then quietly moves to the group area to await the children. The other teacher helps the children put away their materials. When the children who are coming to circle are gathered, the teacher leading circle begins a welcome song to welcome the children to circle.