Features

Observation, Assessment and Planning in the EYFS: Part 8: Reporting and describing progress

Sharing observations on children's achievements with both parents and the children themselves is a delicate process for thoughtful practitioners, says Helen Bromley.

There can be no doubt that the ability to describe the progress of babies, toddlers and young children is a vital part of our role as early years practitioners. We need to be able to articulate progress to ourselves, to each other, to parents and carers and perhaps, most importantly of all, to the children with whom we work.

The way in which we describe and celebrate achievement sends strong messages about what we value and what we feel carries worth. We need to consider the tools that we use to report achievement and to map progress. This includes the vocabulary that we use. The language that we employ when conveying information about progress can help build and cement positive relationships, building confidence and self-esteem for all concerned.

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