CHILDCARE HELP MW PLZ why would u need to carry out formal observations of children?

Question

CHILDCARE HELP MW PLZ why would u need to carry out formal observations of children?

Answer 1

-To monitor childrens development, notice any difficultiesthey may be having etc.

-To evalute the room-is the layout suitable, are the toys used, is one area not being used, is there more behavioural issues in one area etc and then once evaluated you can develop that area further.

-Formal---if it isformal and preplanned then you can ensure that the staff member observing has time to do so uninterupted and room leader can make sure the staff ratio is stil maintained whilst the observor is busy.

-To use as evidence eg: if we have suspicion a child has a special educational need or speech difficlty we can use observation as evidence to show parents or professionals. Also helps if applying for funding!

Answer 2

By observing children in their play, you get a snapshot of them: what they like doing, the choices they make, the language they use, their preferences, their stage of devlopment, their patterns of play, their behaviour, their social and personal attitudes and their confidence, etc; etc

All these bits of information can be revealed by observing and writing down everything a child does and says within a set period, 10 mins is good. Then you can interpret the child's interests, stage of development, skills and knowledge, etc to plan personlised future learning expereinces and opportunities for them.