Linking to the EYLF is one of the most misunderstood parts of early childhood documentation. Many educators feel pressured to attach outcome numbers to every observation, photo, or program entry even though this is not required by the National Regulations, the EYLF, or ACECQA.

This guide offers a clear, practical approach to linking that centres professional judgment, meaningful learning, and low‑paperwork practice. Instead of coding everything, educators can use linking strategically only when it genuinely supports planning, communication, or assessment.

A documentation wall is a powerful visual tool used in early childhood settings to showcase children's learning, educator reflections, and connections to curriculum frameworks like the EYLF. It transforms everyday observations into a living, evolving story of growth, identity, and inquiry.

In early childhood settings, meaningful moments often unfold quietly: a glance of recognition, a rhythmic sway to music, or a spontaneous giggle during water play. These moments may seem fleeting, but they carry profound developmental, emotional, and relational significance. As educators, your professional judgement is the compass that helps decide which experiences to document, reflect on, and share.

This guide is designed to support emotionally intelligent, culturally inclusive, and developmentally attuned documentation. It honours your insight, workload, and the relational depth you bring to your practice. Whether you're crafting a photo story, jotting a sensory note, or simply holding a moment in memory, this framework helps you decide what’s worth recording and why.

This template is to be used as an observation.

In early childhood education, observation and planning cycles are meant to illuminate learning—not drown educators in endless paperwork. Yet for many services, these cycles have become overwhelming, rigid, and detached from everyday practice. The solution isn’t to lower standards but to design systems that reflect real moments, empower educator voice, and prioritize children's growth without burning out the people guiding it.

To make the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) planning cycle more impactful and engaging, you can explore strategies that emphasize collaboration, creativity, and responsiveness. The folowing article provides Strategies For An Impactful and Meaningful EYLF Planning Cycle, What Is Child Centered Focus, What is Continuous Documentation, What Is Dynamic Programming, How To Include Follow Ups Into The EYLF Program, How Often Children Should Be Observed and more. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to programming and planning using EYLF. This guide also includes: How Do You Gather Information About Children's Interests, Strengths, and Learning Styles?, How Do You Analyze Observations To Identify Learning Outcomes?, How Do You Analyze Observations To Plan And Implement Further Learning Opportunities?, What Other Evidence Can Be Gathered To Intergrate Learning Opportunities Onto The EYLF Program and more. 

EYLF Learning Outcome 5 focuses on effective communication, helping children develop verbal and non-verbal skills to express themselves confidently. The following article provides information on Key Learning Goals, Strategies To Support Learning Goals, Activities That Link To EYLF Learning Outcome 5, Lesson Plan Sample For EYLF Outcome 5, and more. 

Outcome 4: Children Are Confident And Involved Learners in the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) focuses on fostering children's curiosity, creativity, and inquiry. The following article provides information on Key Learning Goals, Strategies To Support Learning Goals, Activities That Link To EYLF Learning Outcome 4, Lesson Plan Sample For EYLF Outcome 4, and more. 

EYLF Learning Outcome 3 focuses on "Children Have A Strong Sense Of Wellbeing." The following article provides information on Key Learning Goals, Strategies To Support Learning Goals, Activities That Link To EYLF Learning Outcome 3, Lesson Plan Sample For EYLF Outcome 3, and more.