Focused Observations: How to Observe Children for Assessment and Curriculum Planning: Book and DVD

Give teachers the tools to watch, listen, and learn! Focused Observations provides a comprehensive introduction to observation in the early childhood classroom. Six chapters detail classroom-tested observation techniques that allow teachers to understand children’s behavior, assess children’s development, and develop curriculum that addresses children’s capabilities and passions. Ideal for pre-service or practicing teachers, Focused Observations also contains discussion questions, observation practice exercises, and reflection assignments.

Gaye Gronlund is an early childhood education consultant and trains early childhood educators across the country on topics ranging from observation and assessment to understanding and meeting state education standards. She holds a master's degree in human development from Pacific Oaks College with a specialization in early childhood education and teaching adults. Marlyn James is an education/early childhood professor at Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell, Montana.