Observation Techniques

Learn a variety of objective observation methods to accurately document children's behaviors, skills, and developmental progress.

Assessment and Child Development

Understand how observations are used to assess development across all learning domains and identify each child's strengths and areas for growth.

Using Assessment to Guide Teaching

Discover how to use observation and assessment data to plan individualized, developmentally appropriate activities and effectively communicate children's progress with families.

About the course

Observation and assessment are essential tools that help early childhood educators understand each child's individual development, strengths, interests, and learning needs. By regularly observing children during everyday activities and documenting their progress, teachers can plan developmentally appropriate experiences that support each child's growth and success.

Dr. Rhonda Crabbs

Rhonda Crabbs is an early childhood education leader, trainer, and curriculum specialist with extensive experience supporting educators, children, and families across Texas. She is the founder of Shade Tree Learning, an organization dedicated to providing high-quality professional development, CDA support, and leadership training for early childhood professionals. Through Shade Tree Learning, Dr. Crabbs offers instructor-led webinars, director credential programs, curriculum support, and practical training designed to strengthen early childhood programs and empower educators.

Curriculum

7 Chapters · 24 Lessons

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      What Is Observation?

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      What Is Assessment?

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Why Observation and Assessment Matter

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Developmental Domains

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Developmental Milestones

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Observing the Whole Child

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Anecdotal Records

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Running Records

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Checklists

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Rating Scales

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Frequency Counts

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Time Sampling

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Event Sampling

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Work Samples

    9. (Included in full purchase)

      Photographs and Videos

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Objective vs. Subjective Observation

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Avoiding Bias

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      What to Record

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Observation Tips

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      What Is Authentic Assessment?

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Benefits of Authentic Assessment

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Play-Based Assessment

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Next Steps

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

Observe with Purpose. 

Teach with Confidence. Learn how to accurately observe, document, and assess children's development so you can create meaningful learning experiences that support every child's success. This practical training gives early childhood educators the skills and confidence to use observation and assessment as powerful tools for individualized instruction, stronger family communication, and higher-quality teaching practices.

$30.00

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