Structure at a glance

1. Context: who/where/what provoked the learning.
2. Observation: specific, neutral description + quotes.
3. Learning analysis: name the learning and link to EYLF 1–5.
4. Next steps: practical experiences, questions, and environment tweaks.
5. Family/child voice: invite responses and home links.

Tone and language

• Write like you speak to families; avoid jargon; explain the "why" of the learning.
• Use strong verbs; avoid generic praise; highlight dispositions (curiosity, persistence).

Annotated examples (short → advanced)

1) Beginner example (short and focused)

Observation: Mia poured water through two funnels, frowned when it spilled, then tried a wider jug. "It goes faster!"

Learning analysis (EYLF 4,5): Testing cause‑and‑effect; using comparative language; communicating discovery.

Next steps: Add timers and tubes; prompt predictions ("Which is faster? Why?").

2) Intermediate example (social‑emotional)

Observation: Aria held the crane hook and said, "Your turn next, Max." They smiled and alternated without educator prompts.

Learning analysis (EYLF 2,3,5): Cooperation; self‑regulation; using language to negotiate and include peers.

Next steps: Add a visual turn card; model scripts ("When you're finished, can I have a turn?"); reflect with photos.

3) Advanced example (creative arts + metalanguage)

Observation: Leo mixed blue and white to make "stormy sky" and experimented with pressure to create gradients.

Learning analysis (EYLF 3,4,5): Fine motor control; experimenting; using art vocabulary (shade, blend) to communicate techniques.

Next steps: Offer rollers/sponges; introduce gradient cards; invite a caption or dictated story to accompany the painting.

Common mistakes and fixes

• Vague outcomes → Name 2–3 specific links; show evidence.
• Long story, little learning → Cut to what matters; add next steps.
• Missing family/child voice → Quote or prompt a response.

Quick checklist (printable)

• Clear context (who/where/what)
• Specific observation + direct quote
• 2–3 EYLF outcomes named with evidence
• Actionable next steps (experience, environment, question)
• Family prompt to invite response

FAQs

• How long should it be? 1–3 paragraphs with explicit analysis is enough.
• Can I link multiple outcomes? Yes—usually 2–3 with evidence.
• Group or single child? Match to purpose: breadth vs depth and voice.
• Photos? 1–3 with captions tied to the analysis.

Links: Examples · Templates · Examples: Playdough, Sandpit, Painting