Observing Children

Teacher Information

While learning about observing children, it is only sensible to give the

students ample opportunities to partake in this kind of activity. You can have the
students complete as many of the observations as you like. I usually let the
students do about three and they have to be in different locations/environments.
Different types of locations include observing children at home, at the park
playing, or in a store or mall. For the store, I usually allow them to write down the
behavior and/or actions of several different kids. Remind your students to make
sure that they get the parents permission first before approaching any kids for any
reason, even if just to find out their name and age. It would be best to have a note
from you and/or their school ID to help verify their identity. You may also specify
if they have a time limit or not for the length of time that they observe the children.
Attached you will find the worksheet that my students use!

After you have the students complete 2 or more of the worksheets, allow them to
compare the behaviors of the children and to come up with a general conclusion
about kids. This conclusion can be based on their ages, their locations, or other
environmental factors.

2010 Just FACS

 Name __________________________________ Date_______________ Class____________

OBSERVING CHILDREN

Directions: Record the actions of a child in their home, in a park, or store.

Time Began:

Time Ended:

Location:

Name and age of

child observed:

Observe the child,

and describe their
actions. (Remember
to be objective)

What was something

interesting that you
observed?

Tips to Remember
Remember to get permission from the parent before approaching the child.
Once the observation begins, make sure to interact with the child as little as possible.

2010 Just FACS