At the front of the room, school psychologist Ashley Genco and social worker Taylor Bellardo invite students to gather in a circle on the carpet.

Voices soften. Smiles appear. A “Sunshine Circle” is about to begin.

New to Lincoln this school year, Sunshine Circles use relationship-based play as a way to foster connection and belonging in the classroom by modeling healthy interactions between children and adults.

“Sunshine Circles use relationship-based play as a way to facilitate connection in the classroom,” said Genco. “The activity helps to model healthy interactions between the child and the teacher. The structure that is followed each week helps to build safety, organization, and regulation.”

Lincoln students jump around during the dancing portion of a “Sunshine Circle.”

Each session follows a predictable rhythm — beginning with a cheerful rendition of “You Are My Sunshine” to remind students that they are loved, reviewing simple ground rules, and checking in with each child through a “cotton ball” greeting that allows every student individual attention. The group then enjoys a quick game — most recently a round of “Freeze Dance — before sharing a snack and closing with the familiar tune “The More We Get Together.”

The consistency and warmth of each session helps children build confidence, practice self-regulation, and strengthen their relationships with peers and adults.

“Sunshine Circles prioritize intentional and positive interactions with the child,” said Bellardo. “Adults meet the children on their level and engage in all parts of the group. Our warm and responsive demeanor conveys genuine care and interest; this works to increase felt-safety in the classroom. The benefits include less challenging behaviors and increased cooperation when the children feel truly heard and seen.”

For Arotin’s kindergarteners, those benefits are easy to spot — laughter, teamwork, and a sense of calm that lingers long after the circle ends. And for staff, the program reinforces a shared commitment to helping students feel connected and cared for each day.

“”The impact of Sunshine Circles has been incredible to watch,” said Katie Russo, Lincoln Elementary School principal. “Our students look forward to that time each week — it helps them feel calm, connected, and ready to learn. I’m so grateful to Mrs. Genco and Mrs. Bellardo for bringing this practice to our building and for modeling how powerful simple, consistent moments of connection can be.”

Lincoln Elementary School psychologist Ashley Genco sits with a student during a “Sunshine Circle.”

Lincoln Elementary School social worker Taylor Bellardo converses with a kindergarten student during a “Sunshine Circle.”’