Show and Tell Circle
To develop confidence in speaking to a group and using descriptive language.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Communication & Language
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Speaks in front of a group
- Uses descriptive vocabulary
- Answers questions about their topic
- Listens to others' contributions
Materials
- Special show and tell bag or box
- Comfortable circle time space
- Visual prompts for questions
Instructions
Establish show and tell as a regular, anticipated event. Send home a special bag with a note: 'It's your child's turn to share something special on Thursday. They might choose a toy, a photo, or something from nature. Help them think about what they want to say about it.'
Create a supportive atmosphere by modelling yourself first. Bring something to share: 'I've brought my favourite mug. My grandma gave it to me. It has flowers on it—see? I use it every morning for my tea.' This shows children what you're expecting.
When it's a child's turn, help them stand or sit where everyone can see. Say warmly: 'We're all looking at Priya because it's her turn. Let's use our listening ears.' Give the speaker your full, genuine attention.
Some children will talk confidently whilst others need gentle prompts. Have open questions ready: 'Where did you get it? Who gave it to you? What do you like about it? What does it feel like?' But don't fire questions—give time to think.
Teach the group to be a good audience. 'When someone is sharing, we look at them, we listen, and we save our talking for later. That helps them feel brave.' Praise good listening as much as good speaking.
After the child finishes, invite questions from the group: 'Does anyone have a question for Priya about her shell?' Model good questioning if needed: 'I'm wondering where you found it?' Manage turn-taking sensitively.
Celebrate every contribution genuinely: 'Thank you for sharing your shell with us, Priya. I learned something new—I didn't know shells could be purple!' Help children feel their sharing mattered.
For reluctant speakers, offer alternatives: they might whisper to a puppet who 'tells' the group, or you might describe their object whilst they hold it. Build confidence gradually rather than forcing public speaking.