Observations & Record Keeping
Why do we observe children?
at HOPE, we plan activities and experiences within the playgroup, based on the children's individual interests and needs. The staff observe the children to determine what their needs and interests are, in order to plan appropriate experiences for them to enhance their skills, learning and development. This is an essential part of daily practice in any setting, regardless of the age of the baby or child. Looking, listening and noting is important because it helps staff to 'get to know' the children better and to develop positive relationsipos with the children and their parents/carers. At HOPE, we take photographs of the children, which are then put in their individual developments books, with a written account of what they are doing and learning.
As well as helping us to plan activities based around the childrens' needs and interests, we also use these observations to monitor and record their progress in their individual 'Development Matters' profiles. These profiles are completed over the course of their playgroup life and carry on into school - they start from birth and continue to the age of five. There are no targets for the children to meet, as the aim is for each child to progress at his or her own level, in his or her own time - not all children develop at the same time!
These books and observations are only shared with the children, their parents/carers and appropriate members of staff within the playgroup setting. We hope that you will enjoy looking at your child's book and that you may be able to inform us of any significant interests that you have noticed at home.