Describe using an observation from own work setting, the steps of observation in early childhood development?

In my work setting at a preschool, I have observed a child named Sarah who is in the toddler room. I have noticed that she has been showing an interest in stacking blocks and has been attempting to build towers with them.

The steps of observation in early childhood development can be broken down as follows:

1. Selecting the child: Choose a specific child to observe. In this case, Sarah was selected because of her interest in stacking blocks.

2. Setting the scene: Create a conducive environment for observation. Ensure that there are enough blocks available for Sarah to play with and observe her in a quiet and non-disruptive manner.

3. Noting the behavior: Observe Sarah as she interacts with the blocks. Take note of her actions, reactions, and any patterns or trends that emerge.

4. Recording the observation: Document the observation in a systematic and objective manner. Note down the time, date, and specific behaviors exhibited by Sarah during the observation period.

5. Analyzing the observation: Reflect on the observation and consider what it reveals about Sarah's development. In this case, Sarah's interest in stacking blocks may indicate her developing fine motor skills and spatial awareness.

6. Sharing the observation: Share the observation with colleagues, parents, or other relevant stakeholders. Discuss any concerns or insights that have emerged from the observation.

By following these steps of observation in early childhood development, educators can gain valuable insights into children's growth and development and tailor their teaching strategies to meet their individual needs.