Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, you probably already know the incredible value of observation. The time we spend observing children is more than just watching; it’s about truly seeing them and tuning into their unique thoughts, actions, and interactions. When it comes to early years, observations examples show us the essence of each child. It’s where we as educators get to capture the essence of each child, documenting the little moments that make up their bigger learning journeys. I love doing observations and I hope I will be able to pass my passion on why they are important to you!
Why Observations Matter in Early Childhood Education
At the heart of our work is the dedication to support and nurture children’s growth. Observations allow us to understand each child better—identifying their strengths, interests, and even the challenges they may be experiencing. They are a powerful tool that provides us with insights into a child’s world, enabling us to tailor our teaching strategies and foster a learning environment that genuinely meets their needs.
The Fundamentals of Effective Observations
Good observations require a few essential ingredients: objectivity, clarity, and consistency. Here’s how to bring these principles into your daily practice:
1. Learning observations are objective
- Stick to what you see and hear. Describe actions without adding your own interpretations. For instance, instead of saying “Liam was frustrated,” you might write, “Liam scrunched his face, crossed his arms, and sighed deeply.” Objective notes leave room for interpretation later, allowing educators to piece together insights without assumptions.
2. Learning observations are specific
- Detail is key. Instead of noting that a child “played with blocks,” capture the intricacies: “Amelia stacked six blocks, pausing to adjust each one, then clapped when she completed her tower.” These specifics provide a richer context that’s invaluable when reflecting on and planning for each child’s development.
3. They are Free from Bias
- Keep an open mind. Observations should celebrate the child’s individuality without layering on our own cultural or personal biases. Avoid phrases like, “He’s shy because he didn’t join in,” and instead note what you observe directly.
Types of Observations: Finding the Right Fit
Different observation techniques serve different purposes, and each one has its own strengths. Here’s a quick overview of a few common types:
- Anecdotal Observations:
- These are brief snapshots, capturing a specific moment or behaviour. For example, “At 10:30 AM, Sarah carefully stacked ten blocks before they toppled. She laughed and immediately started stacking them again.”
- Great for capturing specific behaviours or one-off moments.
https://youtu.be/BV9pLpNoNkw?si=vhiWgG7Ukxqh1KAd
- Running Records:
- This is a continuous, detailed account of a child’s activities over a set period, written in the present tense. It’s ideal for understanding how a child engages over time. Example: “From 9:00 to 9:15 AM, James played in the sandpit, digging, pouring sand, and filling his bucket. He then joined another child, chatting and laughing.”
- Learning Stories:
- These narratives describe children’s learning processes, framed like stories that bring out their interests, progress, and enthusiasm. For instance, this is an example of learning story from The Wariki curriculum, based on the ideas of Carr (2001) and Lee (2021)
Perfect for sharing with families as they highlight the child’s voice and reflect on their learning journey.
https://youtu.be/c5CV2DuIcmc?si=t2s7TDQFNtKiuBVT
The Role of Reflection in Observation
Once you’ve collected your observations, take a moment to reflect. This is where we interpret what we’ve seen, connecting the dots between actions and learning. Reflection helps us delve into the “why” behind behaviours, providing context and guiding our planning for future learning experiences.
Consider questions like👇🏻
- What does this behaviour say about the child’s interests and strengths?
- Are there recurring themes or patterns in their interactions or play?
- How can I support or extend this child’s interests in the classroom?
Documenting Observations: Keeping Track of Growth
Well-documented observations help us track progress over time and create a fuller picture of each child’s learning journey. There are various tools you can use for documentation, from photos and video recordings to work samples. Remember, documentation is a two-way process. Sharing it with families encourages an ongoing dialogue and builds strong partnerships that benefit the child’s development.
EYLF observations – how?
Observations become even more powerful when linked to learning frameworks like the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) in Australia. This framework provides educators with learning outcomes, guiding us in planning experiences that align with each child’s developmental needs.
For example, if you notice a child demonstrating curiosity and problem-solving during a building activity, you might align this observation with EYLF Outcome 4, which relates to children as confident and involved learners. By making these connections, you can create meaningful learning experiences that nurture each child’s strengths and interests.
Making Observations Fun
Observations don’t have to be stiff or formal. Adding a bit of creativity can make them more enjoyable and insightful:
- Use Narrative Observation. They are essentially stories. Write a little story that captures the spirit of a child’s exploration or discovery.
- Add Quotes and Conversations. Direct quotes from children’s conversations provide authenticity, bringing the child’s voice into your documentation.
- Play with Formats. Try jotting down key moments as bullet points or create a mind map to illustrate connections between a child’s interests and learning.
Final Thoughts
Observing children is an art, that takes time to develop, one that gets richer with practice. It’s an intentional act of tuning into their world, capturing their uniqueness, and helping to guide their learning in a respectful and responsive way. So, let’s embrace this journey with an open mind, celebrate the small moments, and enjoy the opportunity to grow alongside the children in our care.
Through observation, we not only gain insights into each child’s development but also refine our own practice, becoming more attuned and responsive educators. Happy observing!
