Community Circle Rules
To develop understanding of rules and their purpose through collaborative rule-making.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Contributes to rule-making
- Follows agreed rules
- Reminds others of rules
- Understands purpose of rules
Materials
- Large paper for rules display
- Photos of children following rules
- Rule symbols
- Voting stickers
Instructions
ASKING WHY WE NEED RULES: 'Why do we have rules? What would happen if everyone ran inside? Or everyone grabbed toys? Rules help us all feel safe and happy!'
INVOLVING CHILDREN: 'What rules do YOU think we need? What's important?' Children are more likely to follow rules they've created: 'We should be kind!' 'We should use walking feet!'
KEEPING RULES POSITIVE: Reframe negatives: instead of 'Don't hit', try 'Use gentle hands'. Instead of 'No running', try 'Use walking feet'. Positive rules tell children what TO do.
REVIEWING REGULARLY: 'Are our rules still working? Do we need any new ones? Is there one we can take away because everyone follows it now?' Rules are living documents.