Learning journal vs learning journey (what’s the difference?)

• Learning journal: A curated record of a child’s learning (observations, photos/audio, child/family voice, next steps) aligned to EYFS.
• Learning journey: The bigger narrative that connects these moments over time (starting points → milestones → outcomes → next steps).

Use journals to capture quality evidence; use the journey to tell the progress story, inform planning, and communicate with families.

Why they matter in EYFS

• For children: celebrates interests and effort; builds identity as a learner.
• For practitioners: informs planning and provision; reduces burden by focusing on what matters.
• For families: gives clear, accessible windows into learning; invites meaningful home links.

How to create an effective learning journal

1. Define purpose (formative evidence to inform provision, not compliance).
2. Capture rich observations (objective notes, key quotes, media as appropriate).
3. Analyse learning (what is happening; link to ELGs and Areas of Learning).
4. Record child/family voice (verbatim where possible).
5. Write one actionable next step (specific, achievable in your provision).
6. Tag and file (areas/ELGs; date; cohort/group if relevant) and share.

Quality checklist (quick scan)

• Clear context (what/where/who) and objective description.
• One or two most relevant Areas/ELGs (avoid over-tagging).
• Child voice included where possible; family link suggested.
• Next step is observable, time-bound, and resourced in provision.

Examples and templates

• Start quickly with ready-made structures:
• Learning Journal Templates & Examples
• Learning Journey Templates & Examples

Example journal entry (EYFS-aligned)

Context: Small-world construction; two children building a bridge. Observation: S. suggests “We need a stronger bit,” tests blocks, adjusts design with peer. Analysis: CL (speaking, reasoning), PSED (collaboration), UW (materials). Next step: Offer clipboards and bridge photos; introduce “strong/weak/bend” vocabulary in provision.

EYFS observations and next steps

• What to observe, types of observations, and how to write impactful next steps that link to ELGs and Areas of Learning.
• Deep dive: EYFS Observations, Next Steps, and Evidence Guide

From observation to action (workflow)

1. Noticing (objective notes, quote, photo if helpful)
2. Interpreting (what learning is happening?)
3. Linking (ELGs/Areas)
4. Planning (one provision change/opportunity)
5. Reviewing (date to revisit; quick reflection)

Assessment and curriculum links

• Understand how journals and journeys connect to assessment and planning.
• EYFS Assessment and Profiles
• Early Learning Goals (ELGs) Explained
• EYFS Areas of Learning: A Practitioner Guide

Digital tools and floor books

• Tools make capture, tagging, and sharing easier.
• Tapestry Learning Journal: Features, Pricing, Alternatives
• Alternatives to Tapestry (Evidence Me, eyLog, ILD, Kinderly)
• Floor Books in EYFS: Ideas and Templates

Consider data privacy, export options, and staff/family onboarding when choosing a tool.

Keep workload low (practical routine)

• Capture in the moment where possible; batch if needed for 10 minutes daily.
• Tag 1–2 Areas; link ELGs only when the evidence genuinely fits.
• Add one next step you can enact this week; note the provision tweak.
• Revisit journeys half‑termly to connect milestones and adjust provision.

How to structure a simple journal entry

1. Context (what, who, where)
2. Observation (objective description)
3. Analysis (what learning is happening; link to ELGs/Areas)
4. Child voice/family voice (quotes)
5. Next steps (specific, doable, time-bound)
6. Media (photo/video) and permission notes

FAQs (EYFS learning journals)

• How often should we add entries? Focus on quality over frequency; aim for representative coverage over time.
• Can families contribute? Yes—invite photos, notes, and comments; reference them in your analysis.
• Paper or digital? Choose what fits your workflow and community; prioritise clarity, privacy, and portability.
• How many tags? One or two most relevant Areas/ELGs are usually enough.

Related links

• Observations/Next Steps, Journal Templates, Journey Templates, Assessment, ELGs, Areas of Learning, Tapestry, ChatGPT Learning Stories (EYFS)
• Observations ↔ Observation Types, Two-Year Check, ELGs
• Journal/Journey Templates ↔ Tapestry/Alternatives, Floor Books
• Assessment/ELGs/Areas ↔ Observations, Journals

---

Need a quick start? Open a template above and copy the structure into your setting’s tool.