Early Atlas

Activity

Our Classroom Agreements Circle

In a group circle, children help name a few shared rules for the classroom and add their handprint or mark to show they belong and agree.

Ages 30–54 months

Inspired by HighScope Play-based learning community rules belonging

Supports this milestone

  • has sense of belonging to family, community, and other groups. — Head Start ELOF

Explore milestones →

Materials

  • A large sheet of chart paper titled "Our Agreements"
  • Markers and washable paint or an ink-free stamp pad for handprints
  • Simple picture cards showing actions like listening, sharing, and gentle hands

Steps

  • Ask the group: "What helps everyone feel safe and happy here?"
  • Invite a few ideas and reword them into short, positive agreements with the children.
  • Draw or attach a picture card next to each agreement so non-readers can follow.
  • Have each child add a handprint or name mark to show they are part of the group.
  • Read the finished agreements together and cheer that everyone belongs.

Variations

  • Revisit one agreement each morning and act it out together.
  • Turn an agreement into a short song or chant the class can sing.

Differentiation

  • For younger children, keep to two simple agreements with clear pictures.
  • For older children, invite them to suggest what happens when an agreement is hard to keep.

Accessibility

  • Pair every spoken agreement with a picture or sign.
  • Offer a stamp or sticker instead of paint for children who dislike messy textures.

Safety

  • If using paint, keep it washable and away from eyes and mouths.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas