Connection Time: A Positive Foundation for Our Day

Each morning begins with Connection Time, a meaningful routine that allows us to gently ease into the day and prepare ourselves for our best learning.

We gather in a circle so everyone is seen and heard. 

1. Prayer and Land Acknowledgement

We always begin in prayer, remembering that God is at the center of all we do and all we are:

“Father in Heaven, I give You today, all that I think, and do, and say. Amen.”

Simple actions, led by our Prayer Leaders, accompany our words, helping us to pray with both heart and body.

Following prayer, we share our child-friendly acknowledgement of land and people.

2. Greetings

A warm hello, eye contact, and using someone’s name can go a long way in helping others feel seen, welcomed, and like they belong. We practice different greetings, including really silly ones, like this much-loved Stinky Shoe Hello!

3. News

Students are invited to share what is on their minds, whether joyful or hard. We’ve already heard about movie nights, lost teeth, lake trips, swimming, and more!

4. Social Scenario Problem-Solving
To build problem-solving skills, students are presented with real-life social situations. In pairs, they brainstorm possible solutions, then come together as a group to discuss. Scenarios have included:

• You spill your yogurt drink on your pants

• A friend is crying at their desk, but you don’t know why

• You forgot your lunch at home

We're exploring the idea that problems can be “mouse problems” (small) or “elephant problems” (big), and that a small problem doesn’t need an elephant-sized reaction. 

6. Story
We end Connection Time with a story, carefully chosen for its message.

Though full, Connection Time moves along and sets a joyful, intentional tone for the day. This time is valued, not only for the learning it supports but for the way it builds our relationships and helps us see Christ in one another.