Groundhog Day Preschool Circle Time Plan

The Groundhog Day Circle Time Plan is a complete 5-day preschool science and social studies unit designed to help young learners understand Groundhog Day, shadows, weather, and seasonal changes. Through read alouds, songs, movement, hands on crafts, and guided discussions, children explore this February tradition in a simple, engaging, and developmentally appropriate way.

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🐿️ What’s Included in the Groundhog Day Preschool Circle Time Plan

• 5 fully planned circle time lessons
• Daily learning objectives written in child friendly language
• Introduction scripts for each day
• Song and movement activities using familiar tunes
• Read aloud book suggestions with before and after discussion prompts
• Hands on crafts and sensory activities
• Printable activity pages
• Winter and Spring sorting activity (6 pages)
• Groundhog shadow prediction activity
• Classroom posters for discussion and display
• Clear materials lists and step by step directions

📆 Daily Themes

Day 1: Meet the Groundhog

Children learn about groundhogs, including what they look like, where they live, and what they eat. The lesson includes a nonfiction read aloud, discussion questions, and a groundhog alphabet sensory bin.

Day 2: What Is Groundhog Day?

Children are introduced to Groundhog Day and learn why it is celebrated. A story based read aloud is paired with discussion, movement, and a groundhog shadow craft.

Day 3: What Are Shadows?

This lesson focuses on how shadows are made. Children explore light and shadows through discussion, a read aloud, and a shadow art activity using toys and a flashlight.

Day 4: Winter and Spring

Children learn about seasonal changes and how winter and spring are different. A read aloud supports discussion, followed by a winter and spring sorting activity.

Day 5: Predicting the Weather

Children explore weather prediction and the groundhog’s role on Groundhog Day. The lesson includes discussion and a groundhog shadow prediction chart.

📘 How to Use the Groundhog Day Preschool Circle Time Plan

• Use one lesson per day during circle time or whole group instruction
• Introduce each concept using the provided teacher scripts
• Read the suggested book and guide discussion with included prompts
• Reinforce learning with songs, movement, and crafts
• Wrap up the week by reviewing seasons and weather predictions

🎯 Educational Benefits

• Builds early science and weather understanding
• Develops vocabulary related to seasons and shadows
• Strengthens listening and comprehension skills
• Encourages predicting and reasoning skills
• Supports fine motor development through crafts and hands on activities

🖍️ Classroom Tips

• Use flashlights or sunlight to explore real shadows indoors or outdoors
• Display posters throughout the week to reinforce concepts
• Repeat songs and movements daily for familiarity and confidence
• Encourage children to share their own weather observations

This Groundhog Day Circle Time Unit is ideal for preschool, pre k, kindergarten, and homeschool settings. It keeps planning simple while delivering meaningful learning through play based instruction.

Happy Teaching! 😊