Circle time forms a crucial element to my work at Forest Schools and my sessions always begin and end with circle time activities. Having practiced meditation for many years I strongly believe in the value that regular meditation can bring to children in respect to improved emotional regulation, tolerance to difficulties, greater self awareness and appreciating the experiences that they are having in the present. Children are taught a range of meditation practices using the breath, sounds, visual cues and the body as anchors to coming back to the present moment. Further, children are taught how to correctly meditate while walking to aid in various woodland walks or walks on school grounds. Once experienced children can meditate in a ‘sit spot’ where they go alone to meditate and learn to develop a positive relationship with solitude. At circle time children are encouraged to be open and share their thoughts and feelings with one another and to be attentive and respectful in regard to listening. A range of sensory activities are taught which develop a greater awareness and curiosity to the world around them by harnessing and enriching the full range of human senses.
