Proposals to change the school day for Angus youngsters would lead to a reduction in direct contact between pupils and teachers.
Parents and teachers of children in P1-3 will be asked about a new structure that would be more in line with Scottish Government philosophy.
While no reduction in the school day is proposed, a reduced amount of time devoted to direct contact between the teacher and pupil is on the cards, as is a greater emphasis on learning through play.
The consultation will run until the end of April.
The government announced in 2013 that it wanted greater emphasis placed on early-years play sessions.
A report to Angus Council’s children and learning committee was made yesterday by strategic director Margo Williamson.
It acknowledged that opportunities exist across Angus for all children to be involved in unstructured outdoor play at lunchtime and playtime.
She said the length of time and value of such play varied.
The management of teacher pupil contact, especially in the early years of primary school, varies greatly and there are also variations in the timings of the school day.
The report says the introduction of free school meals for all P1-3 children has prompted a rise in numbers. This means schools have to look again at lunch-break arrangements and ensure there is adequate time for play.
The consultation and report will seek to balance meal time with play time and ensure there is enough of the former included in the school day.
Kirriemuir councillor Ronnie Proctor sought reassurances that a report from the consultation period would return to committee members for consideration, along with any recommendations.
He also wanted to know that the status quo would remain an option and was reassured on both points.
Committee members also approved a separate council consultation about possible changes to the secondary school week.
Its purpose will be to test whether the existing weekly timetable is best placed to accommodate the Curriculum for Excellence, or whether another structure such as a 33-period week might be better suited.
Five possible options for the consultation are no change, individual school flexibility within current 35 period structure, flexibility within the school week, individual schools moving to 33 periods or all schools making the switch.
Councillor Donald Morrison requested that the experience of other councils be canvassed during the consultation.