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Children walk into the classroom carrying more than just a backpack every day. They carry the weight of a rough morning. An unspoken worry. A need to feel safe.
These invisible loads go unnoticed when Circle Time is rushed or reduced to routine.
And here’s the real question: What if the first few minutes of the day were designed to lift that weight?
When we treat Circle Time as a connection-building ritual, rather than just a formality, it becomes a powerful opportunity to look each child in the eye and remind them: You matter here.
This week, we’ve gathered playful practices and simple rituals that strengthen community and help students feel seen before anything academic begins. Let’s turn morning check-ins into connections!
#365: Milestones & Meaning: Celebrating Play, Purpose, and Partnership
Paul and I celebrate something deeper than numbers—the human stories, small joys, and moments that give our work meaning. As we mark the launch of our new book, 365 Days of Play, and the show’s 365th episode, we reflect on how play has built a global community and kept us grounded in relationships.
This episode is a love letter to the power of meaningful connection and an invitation to make space for it in your journey.
Tune in now and foster bonds that weather burnout, fear, and anxiety!
Daily Mission Cards
When Circle Time lacks variety, kids tend to disengage, especially if it follows the same routine every morning.
Here’s a chance to change that:
Invite your students to create a dance together as a group. It could be a brand-new routine built from their moves or a shared remix of favourites like the classic round of Heads, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes, or even a funky twist on the Chicken Dance.
You’re getting the wiggles out and sparking group creativity by infusing music and collaboration. Even a five-minute dance ritual can make everyone feel part of something.
Get the Creative Play and Movement Mission Cards for more energising ideas to supercharge your mornings with play!
Set Go
Is your group dragging at the start of the day? Low energy can kill momentum before it begins.
Set Go is one of our go-to games in workshops. This high-energy game gets everyone on their feet and thinking fast. Simple? Yes. But the energy? Electric.
What makes it a standout:
- Instant engagement—no equipment or setup needed
- Adaptable—works for classrooms, assemblies, even staff sessions
- 100% tested—we use it in nearly every large-group event, and it never fails to get people laughing and moving
So if your team, class, or crowd needs a mood shift, Set Go is your secret weapon. Try it this week and let us know how your crew plays!
CRT Masterclass
Let's be honest, stepping into a class can be tough. You're expected to lead and manage the behaviour of all different kinds of students... all with zero prep time.
The CRT Masterclass is a recorded version of the exact high-energy session I deliver to schools worldwide.
Inside, I walk you through:
- My favourite no-fail games that instantly build a connection
- Simple strategies for movement-based learning
- Practical ways to manage transitions and keep students engaged without chaos
If you've ever walked into a room and felt lacking, this workshop will flip that.
Sign up to watch the CRT Masterclass today and leave with a toolbox of fun, flexible activities that make you feel confident!
From Strangers to Lifelong Friends
What an unforgettable evening with Muscular Dystrophy Australia! In our second session of the year, and the first under our exciting new partnership, we had the privilege of working with parents and carers of children living with Muscular Dystrophy.
The room was filled with warmth and connection as we guided participants through playful, heart-opening experiences.
We’re beyond grateful to deliver four dedicated sessions a year through MDA’s programs, and we can’t wait to create more powerful moments like this one. Thank you for letting us be part of your journey.
Join us on this global journey of joy and connection! If you want to bring The School of Play to your community, fill out the form here ➡
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