Open Ended Observations

Creating open-ended observations in early childhood settings is all about capturing the richness of a child’s experience without judgment, assumptions, or leading interpretations. These observations invite reflection, celebrate authentic voice, and support responsive planning. The following article is a guide to help you craft them effectively.

What Are Open-Ended Observations?

Open-ended observations:

Describe rather than evaluate: Focus on what the child did, said, or expressed—not what you think it means.
Invite interpretation: Leave space for educators, families, or even children to reflect and add meaning.
Support child voice: Capture language, gestures, and choices that reflect the child’s perspective.

How to Write Them: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start with the context

Include time, setting, materials, and social dynamics.

Example: “At 9:15am in the outdoor play area, Ava stood beside the water trough with two plastic cups.”

2. Describe actions and language

Use objective, sensory-rich language. Avoid adjectives like “happy,” “creative,” or “confident” unless the child expresses them.

Example: “She poured water from one cup to the other, watching closely. ‘It’s going down!’ she said.”

3. Capture interactions

Note how the child engages with peers, adults, or the environment.

Example: “When Leo approached, Ava handed him a cup and said, ‘You do it now.’”

4. Include pauses, gestures, and expressions

These often reveal thinking, emotion, or intention.

Example: “Ava paused, tilted her head, and looked at the water level before pouring again.”

5. End with an open reflection or question

This scaffolds inquiry and planning.

Example: “What might Ava be exploring about volume and flow?”

Tips for Authenticity and Depth

Use the child’s exact words when possible.
Avoid assumptions like “She was pretending to be a doctor”—instead say “She held the stethoscope to her chest and said, ‘I’m checking my heart.’”
Link to learning later, not in the observation itself—keep the raw moment intact.

Open Ended Examples For Different Age Groups

Here are some open-ended observation examples tailored to different age groups and developmental domains.

Infant Example (Sensory Exploration)

Observation: “Luca lay on the soft mat, reaching both hands toward the hanging fabric strips. His fingers brushed the textures slowly. He paused, then turned his head toward the light filtering through the window.”

Open Reflection: “What might Luca be discovering through touch and light?”

Toddler Example (Social Interaction)

Observation: “Maya stood beside the block tower, watching as Eli added a piece. She picked up a block, held it out, and said, ‘Here, Eli.’ When the tower fell, both children looked at each other and laughed.”

Open Reflection: “How do Maya and Eli express collaboration and shared joy?”

Preschooler Example (Creative Expression)

Observation: “During drawing time, Zara chose a black marker and began making zigzag lines across the page. She said, ‘This is the storm. The thunder is loud.’ She added blue swirls and whispered, ‘Now it’s raining.’”

Open Reflection: “What emotions or stories might Zara be expressing through her artwork?”

Outdoor Play Example (Risk and Agency)

Observation: “Jasper climbed halfway up the rope ladder, paused, and looked down. He called out, ‘I’m going up high!’ Then he climbed one more rung and said, ‘I did it!’”

Open Reflection: “What does this moment tell us about Jasper’s sense of agency and confidence?”

Child Voice Example (Emotional Literacy)

Observation: “When the music stopped, Aaliyah said, ‘I feel sad when the song goes away.’ She sat quietly, then asked, ‘Can we play it again so my heart feels happy?’” Open Reflection: “How might Aaliyah be using music to regulate and express emotion?”