Child observation simulator: babies

Scenario #3 – Observing Josh and Rebekah

Observation is a key tool when working with children. You may not always document everything that you observe, but you should develop the skill of recording incidental and significant information throughout the day. The most informative picture of a child will result from observations gathered in various contexts, both in and out of the setting. Observation of children should always take place in a context that is meaningful to them. Observations that are rooted in child-initiated learning experiences will generate valuable information for making accurate assessments of learning and development.

Watch the video and read the description below to take a step back and have a look at some everyday happenings. Comments, questions and links to more information are included in the following pages to support your thinking.

The children are being roused from their mid-day sleep. Josh (11-months-old) and Rebekah (10-months-old) have been changed and are sitting on a mat beside a treasure basket. Josh still has his comforter in his mouth and is quietly exploring an object from the treasure basket. Rebekah rubs her eyes, looks around and begins to cry. Josh looks at Rebekah for a moment then takes his comforter out of his mouth, leans over and tries to push it into Rebekah’s mouth. She topples over and cries louder. Josh looks confused and begins to cry too.

Schemas in children’s play (PDF)

 

 

 

 


Continue...