Focused Observations

Greenwood and James know how important it is to observe a child before you try to teach them anything. More important than what you record is what you choose to leave out, because reports can become repetitive. Take for instance a report on a 3 year old and an 11 year old. The 3 year old isn’t going to read, write, or do math, but the older child will. Since they are different, focus the observation differently; if the three year old is doing a puzzle, how long does it take and which one do they choose? Does the 3 year old play well with others? For the 11 year old, you can report on the math and writing abilities.

Next come the portfolio collections. Have criteria for goals ready, and you can gather more information. Sharing information with families is discussed as well, and the authors recommend that everything be kept positive, never complain, always be specific, and do everything according to the parents’ convenience.