Features

Positive Relationships: Observing behaviour - Easy as ABC

Positive Relationships Behaviour Observation, Assessment & Planning Child Development Practice
ABC charts are an excellent means of tracking and evaluating children's behaviour, explain Rachel Lo and Ann Henderson in their new book, The Social Child. All children attending early years settings experience occasions when they may lack the appropriate emotional, social or behavioural skills needed to ensure that their needs are met. During these times, when communication is limited and children find it difficult to express what they want/need/are thinking/are feeling, children's behaviour may be such that it impacts on the well-being of the child and the other children/adults around them.

On these occasions children need assistance from those more skilled, usually adults/practitioners, to determine the best course of action for the child and those around them. It can be unclear how early years practitioners can help in ways that will best meet the child's needs, and an ABC chart can be a useful tool.

ABC behaviour charts help practitioners to monitor where children may be struggling and concerning behaviour is being exhibited. For example, a child might always be finding it difficult to control their temper in the afternoon, but not after having a nap. The child's key person can then adjust the child's schedule accordingly to make nap time earlier.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here