Hey educators? I have been thinking a lot about observations, documentation and planning in the context of early childhood education and care.
Writing observations in childcare is essential, but are we making it harder than it needs to be? Should we focus less on writing and more on learning moments? Let’s break it down 🧵👇
1/ What Are Observations Really For?
Are observations just about compliance, or should they be tools to truly understand children’s development? EYLF explained this as documenting learning outcomes, but are we hitting the mark? Do we use the outcomes as our broad beacons for individual learning goals?
2/ Stop Writing Just to Tick Boxes
Good observations should highlight:
- How a child is developing key skills and dispositions
- Their culture and funds of knoweldge
- Their interests and strengths
- Next steps to extend learning
- The distance travelled (if it is a summative observation).
Is this what your observations look like? Or are we just writing to meet requirements? 🖊️
💡 Need help writing clear and concise observations? 👉 payhip.com/StoryKate
3/ The Jottings Debate
Quick jottings in early childhood education capture moments, but some argue they’re not enough to connect learning to EYLF outcomes. What do you think?
- Are jottings sufficient?
- Or do detailed observations provide better insights? 🖊️✏️
For tips on writing good observations in childcare, check out my video: 🎥 → https://youtu.be/rMxlk6Wufbw?si=lEvlgh5s9w7TzvQy
4/ Observations vs Overload
Early childhood teachers in Australia face mountains of paperwork. Even if it is digital, it is still there. But is all this documentation improving teaching and learning? Or is it taking valuable time away from children? 😟
5/ Action Words = Better Observations
Struggling to write meaningful observations? Use action phrases:
- “The child problem-solved by…”
- Collaborated with … ”
These words link observations to learning outcomes effectively.
Save time with tools for writing observations in childcare: 👉 https://youtu.be/eoUcVM-fMPE?si=T08UccEpOWlVB_cY
6/ Let’s Discuss: Are We Doing Observations the Right Way?
- How can we simplify writing observations in childcare?
- Are we over-documenting in early childhood education?
- Should we focus more on interactions and less on paperwork?
Drop your thoughts below—this is an important conversation for every early childhood teacher in Australia and beyond! 👇
