To gather information on how children feel about activities which they undertake
Aim
To gather information on how children feel about activities which they undertake.
Evidence and reflection
You will need to spend some time considering and/or developing an appropriate tool for collecting the information. If possible discuss this with a colleague or peer.
One method suitable for older children is simply to ask them. Initially, if the children are not used to discussing their likes and dislikes or being asked their opinion, they may find this difficult and you will have to spend time modelling the language they will need to participate in such discussions. For younger children, you may have a series of questions and ask them to indicate with a paddle – for example, a happy face or sad face response. With the youngest children and babies you will have to carefully observe their expressions and their interests.
Extension
Such activities should yield data of considerable importance for future planning and provision. This data should should be analysed to identify any patterns in the children’s perspectives. You may also identify other ways in which these tools could be used to elicit children’s views.
