📝 10-Question Quiz on Observations

What is the main purpose of observation in early years settings?

• To compare children’s progress with each other
  

• To understand what a child knows and can do and plan next steps

• To fill out paperwork for Ofsted

• To test children’s memory

Which is NOT a good time to observe a child?

• During free play

• During a morning group activity

• Just before nap time when the child is tired

• When the child is exploring outdoors

Which type of observation involves recording what a child does at regular intervals?

• Narrative observation

• Event sampling

• Time sampling

• Target child observation

What should you avoid doing during an observation?

• Taking quick notes

• Engaging with the child if they invite you

• Intervening unless the child asks for help

• Interrupting the child’s play to ask questions

What is an example of objective recording in an observation?

• “Tom was upset because he didn’t like the game.”

• “Tom said, ‘I don’t want to play this game,’ and walked away.”

• “Tom is difficult when playing with others.”

• “Tom was angry and stormed off.”

How can observations support planning?

• By identifying next steps based on the child's current interests and abilities

• By collecting data to use for assessment reports

• By comparing progress between children

• By building evidence for Ofsted inspections

7. Why is it important to observe children in different settings (indoor and outdoor)?

• To gather information for reports

• To understand how the child interacts in different environments

• To create more learning opportunities

• All of the above

8. What should you do if a child refuses to engage during an observation?

• Keep observing and write down the refusal

• Ask the child why they won’t engage

• Stop the observation and try again another time

• Ignore the refusal

9. Why is it essential to share observation outcomes with parents?

• To increase the nursery’s reputation

• To help parents feel involved in their child's learning

• To collect evidence for Ofsted

• To create more work for practitioners

10. What is the best way to record an observation accurately?

• Write down opinions and interpretations

• Focus on what the child actually did and said

• Record only positive behaviours

• Summarise what you expected to happen