
As the Founder and Administrator of Miracle Moments Christian Preschools, I do not always have the opportunity to sit and observe our children during their Worship/Circle Time each morning. This past week, however, I was blessed to be able to observe one such time at our National City campus, lead by the school's Director, Mary Johnson. Ms. Mary lead the children in prayer, sang fun songs, and told them a Bible story, all with the tenderness and love of a mother with her own children. As I watched, I was reminded of the importance and sacredness of this time in our daily schedule.
In general, Circle Time is an important part of a child's preschool education because it provides for each child a sense of community. Regardless of one's age or ability, during Circle Time, one can feel a sense of belonging to the group. This time can be especially helpful to those children who might feel shy or perhaps are still learning English (or Spanish) as it encourages communication and participation. Teaching effective communication at this age in this type of setting is important because it is done in association with illustrative stories and songs with reinforcing hand-motions.
For example, at our schools, most of our children do not primarily speak English at home. Two of our students, a brother and sister, speak Creole at home and came to us initially speaking very little English at all. In a matter of weeks after enrolling, we were seeing their faces light up during Circle Time when the leader would sing a familiar song or when a new friend would sit next to them.
At Miracle Moments, in addition to the interactive and educational elements of this gathering, we also like to teach each child about the love of Jesus. Each morning, one child is asked to help Ms. Mary lead the class in opening prayer. This will not only help them be aware of the existence of our Creator and of the power of prayer, but will also teach them to habitually approach the Lord in prayer every day. Then, Ms. Mary leads the children in a few songs–all of them educational and Christ-centered. Again, the repetition of these simple tunes teaches and reinforces each child's language ability. She then ends Worship with a short story, followed by closing prayer.
I know that each family's schedule is somewhat different. Though I would encourage you, if at all possible, to bring your son or daughter early enough to participate in this very important interactive experience. I started this program because I care about the physical, emotional, spiritual and social well-being of your children, and I want you to be assured of your child's healthy development within each facet. Worship/Circle Time is one very important way in which we progress in these areas.
In general, Circle Time is an important part of a child's preschool education because it provides for each child a sense of community. Regardless of one's age or ability, during Circle Time, one can feel a sense of belonging to the group. This time can be especially helpful to those children who might feel shy or perhaps are still learning English (or Spanish) as it encourages communication and participation. Teaching effective communication at this age in this type of setting is important because it is done in association with illustrative stories and songs with reinforcing hand-motions.
For example, at our schools, most of our children do not primarily speak English at home. Two of our students, a brother and sister, speak Creole at home and came to us initially speaking very little English at all. In a matter of weeks after enrolling, we were seeing their faces light up during Circle Time when the leader would sing a familiar song or when a new friend would sit next to them.
At Miracle Moments, in addition to the interactive and educational elements of this gathering, we also like to teach each child about the love of Jesus. Each morning, one child is asked to help Ms. Mary lead the class in opening prayer. This will not only help them be aware of the existence of our Creator and of the power of prayer, but will also teach them to habitually approach the Lord in prayer every day. Then, Ms. Mary leads the children in a few songs–all of them educational and Christ-centered. Again, the repetition of these simple tunes teaches and reinforces each child's language ability. She then ends Worship with a short story, followed by closing prayer.
I know that each family's schedule is somewhat different. Though I would encourage you, if at all possible, to bring your son or daughter early enough to participate in this very important interactive experience. I started this program because I care about the physical, emotional, spiritual and social well-being of your children, and I want you to be assured of your child's healthy development within each facet. Worship/Circle Time is one very important way in which we progress in these areas.