Guide to Planning Morning Meetings in Special Education Classroom

‘Morning Meetings,’ often referred to as "Circle Time," are a cornerstone of various routines in SpEd classrooms.

They help students practice essential social and communication skills, develop their emotional regulation abilities, and prepare for the day's learning activities.

Why  SpEd Teachers Conduct Morning Meetings in Classrooms?

1. Establish Routine and Predictability

Many special needs students benefit from having a consistent daily routine.

Morning meetings help establish a predictable start to the day. They reduce anxiety and help students feel more secure.

2. Build a Community

Morning meetings encourage a sense of belonging and community among students. This is particularly important in special education settings where some students may feel isolated or different from their peers.

3. Improving Social Skills

These meetings provide structured opportunities for students to practice social skills, such as greeting others, taking turns, listening, and speaking in a group setting.

4. Enhancing Communication Skills

Morning meetings in special education classrooms allow students to express themselves, share their thoughts, and practice verbal and non-verbal communication.

5. Setting the Tone for the Day

They help set a positive tone for the rest of the day. Starting with a supportive, inclusive activity can improve students' attitudes and readiness to learn.

Benefits of Circle Time

Circle Time, an integral part of morning meetings, brings numerous benefits to students in special education classrooms:

1. Emotional Regulation: Engaging in circle time activities can help students regulate their emotions; it provides a calm and focused start to the day.
2. Sense of Belonging: Sitting in a circle creates a physical and symbolic sense of unity and equality; all students feel valued and included.
3. Development of Motor Skills: Many Circle Time activities involve movement, which helps students develop gross and fine motor skills.
4. Increased Attention Span: Regular participation in structured activities can help improve students' attention spans and their ability to stay engaged.
5. Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Activities such as counting, storytelling, and following instructions during Circle Time contribute to cognitive development.

Circle Time Activity Ideas for SpEd Classrooms

1. Greeting Song

Start the day with a cheerful song that includes each student's name. This helps students feel acknowledged and sets a positive tone.

2. Weather Report

Have a student check the weather and report it to the class. Teachers can link this activity to discussions about appropriate clothing or seasonal changes.

3. Calendar Time

Reviewing the date, days of the week, and months helps with time awareness and numeracy skills.

4. Show and Tell

Encourage students to bring an item from home and share it with the class. This Circle Time activity enhances speaking skills and confidence.

5. Mindfulness Exercises

Simple breathing exercises or guided imagery can help students start the day calm and focused.

6. Story Time

Read a short story or a chapter from a book. Discuss the story with the class to develop comprehension and critical thinking skills.

7. Movement Activities

Include simple yoga poses, stretching, or a dance party to help with physical development and energy regulation.

8. Morning Message

Write a brief message on the board about the day's activities during the morning meeting in your special education classroom. Read it together to practice literacy skills.

Reasons Why Every SpEd Class Needs a Morning Meeting Routine

1. Promotes Inclusivity: Ensure that every student starts the day feeling included and valued as part of the group.
2. Supports Diverse Learning Needs: Teachers can customize various activities to meet each student's needs and learning styles.
3. Encourages Positive Behavior: Consistent routines and positive interactions lead to better daily behavior throughout the day.
4. Fosters Emotional and Social Development: Regular practice of social and emotional skills in a supportive environment helps students develop these critical life skills.
5. Enhances Academic Readiness: Starting the day with structured, engaging activities during the morning meeting prepares students for the academic tasks ahead.
6. Builds Teacher-Student Relationships: Morning meetings allow teachers to connect with each student. One-to-one interaction helps build trust and rapport.