👀 Notice
Watch for children's interests, communication, relationships, problem solving, exploration, and emerging skills.
HEAD START • OBSERVATION • DOCUMENTATION
👀 Observation & Documentation
Use observation and documentation to understand children's learning, identify meaningful evidence, and connect what you see to intentional planning.
DOCUMENTATION PRACTICE
Observe With Purpose
Strong documentation begins with noticing authentic moments and recording evidence that can inform understanding, reflection, and planning.
📝 Record
Use objective language to capture what happened, what the child said or did, and the context of the experience.
🔎 Interpret
Consider what the evidence may show about children's development, learning, strengths, and interests.
🎯 Respond
Use the information to plan intentional experiences, interactions, materials, and learning extensions.