Restorative Circles
Restorative circles provide powerful alternatives to punitive discipline and build stronger community.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Champions of Character
- Learning area: Socio-Emotional
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Participate in restorative circle practices
- Address harm through restorative processes
- Build community through circle practices
Materials
- Talking piece
- Circle protocols
- Restorative questions
Instructions
Introduce circle practices: sitting in a circle, using a talking piece, speaking from the heart, listening with respect. Practise community-building circles for regular connection. When harm occurs, use restorative circles: What happened? Who was affected? What needs to happen to make things right? Experience the power of being heard and making amends.
Educator tip
Regular community-building circles make restorative circles more effective when needed. Circles should be part of routine, not just discipline.
Assessment
Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observe circle participation, quality of restorative process, and community impact.