Early childhood teachers like you observe children all day, whether you think of your job that way or not. But with countless responsibilities, you sometimes think you don't have time to record children's important milestones. Focused Observations is a comprehensive resource with realistic—and time-conscious—observation techniques you can use in your classroom. Providing a new approach to a trusted practice, this valuable resource offers classroom-tested methods that help teachers assess children's development, understand their behavior, and develop a curriculum that addresses their capabilities and passions.

Extremely user-friendly, Focused Observations will provide answers to the most common questions about observation, including:

• Why should I observe children?
• What does effective observation look like?
• How do I fit observation in so that it doesn't take me away from the children?
• How can my observation help with curriculum planning and child assessment?

Designed to work hand-in-hand with the Focused Observations book, the accompanying DVD contains vignettes that correlate with activities from the end of each chapter. Each vignette and activity highlight a different aspect of observation in the classroom. The book and DVD set is a wonderful training tool for college coursework, staff development sessions, in-service workshops, and staff meetings.