Making Yarning Circles More Meaningful

Here are some ideas on how to make your Yarning Circle more meaningful and to help reframe the sharing time while keeping the children engaged.

1. Introduce a Storytelling Focus

Encourage children to share personal stories, dreams, or reflections rather than objects. You could start with prompts like:

• “Tell us about a time you felt really happy.”
• “What’s something you learned recently that surprised you?”

2. Use a Talking Stick or Special Object

A talking stick can help reinforce the idea that sharing is about words and connection, not just objects. Children can pass it around and share something meaningful when they hold it.

3. Themed Sharing Days

Instead of bringing items from home, introduce weekly themes like:

• “A story about kindness”
• “Something I’m grateful for”
• “A dream I had”

4. Incorporate Reflective Listening

After each child shares, encourage others to respond with thoughts or questions to deepen the conversation. This helps build active listening skills and keeps the focus on connection.

5. Use Visual or Creative Prompts

Sometimes children need a little inspiration! Try using:

• Story cards with pictures to spark ideas.
• Music or nature sounds to set a reflective mood.
• Drawing or movement to express their thoughts before speaking.

6. Connect to First Nations Traditions

Since Yarning Circles have deep cultural roots, you might explore traditional storytelling practices or invite an Elder to share insights on the importance of oral storytelling.

Yarning Circles With Preschoolers

Here are some Yarning Circle ideas tailored for preschoolers to encourage meaningful conversations and storytelling:

1. Storytelling with Visual Prompts

• Use story cards or picture books to inspire children to share their own stories.

• Show a nature object (like a leaf or shell) and ask, “What do you think its journey has been?”.

2. Emotion-Based Sharing

• Introduce a “How do you feel today?” circle where children express emotions using words or drawings.

• Use a feelings chart to help them describe their moods.

3. Sensory and Nature-Based Yarning

• Bring in natural materials (rocks, flowers, feathers) and let children describe their textures and colors.

• Have a “What did you notice outside today?” discussion to connect with nature.

4. Cultural and Community Connections

• Share traditional stories from different cultures, including First Nations storytelling.

• Invite children to talk about family traditions or special celebrations.

5. Reflective Listening and Turn-Taking

• Use a talking stick or special object to encourage respectful listening.

• Teach children to respond with phrases like “I liked hearing about…” or “That reminds me of…”.

Themed Yarning Circle Prompts

Here are some themed Yarning Circle prompts to encourage meaningful discussions and storytelling:

1. Nature and Environment

• “What’s your favorite thing about being outside?”

• “If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why?”

• “Describe a time you felt connected to nature.”

2. Kindness and Friendship 

• “Tell us about a time someone was kind to you.”

• “What makes a good friend?”

• “How can we show kindness to others?”

3. Dreams and Imagination 

• “If you could visit any place in the world, where would you go?”

• “What’s the most magical thing you can imagine?”

• “If you could invent something, what would it be?”

4. Family and Traditions 

• “What’s a special tradition in your family?”

• “Tell us about a favorite memory with your family.”

• “What’s something you love about your culture?”

5. Gratitude and Reflection 

• “What’s something you’re grateful for today?”

• “Who is someone that inspires you?”

• “What’s a lesson you’ve learned recently?”

Further Reading 

Yarning Circles In Early Childhood Services 
Our Yarning Circle