Planning Meaningful Experiences based on observations

INDUSTRY

Early Childhood

CATEGORY

Refresher Module

LEVEL

Entry

AVG COMPLETION TIME

25 mins

Expert Led

Developed by Australian Experts

Up To Date

Updated as standards and regulations change

Compliant

Comply with ethical and legal obligations

Self Paced

Complete in the flow of work

What You’ll Learn

  • Using Observations to Plan
    Use information gathered from observations and reflections to choose goals.
    Translate those goals into meaningful experiences that promote learning, development, and wellbeing.
  • Linking to EYLF Outcomes
    Connect children’s skills and interests to long-term goals from the EYLF.
    Write short-term goals/objectives that bridge observations and EYLF outcomes.
    Ensure future planning reflects both child-led interests and curriculum frameworks.
  • Designing Experiences and Strategies
    Plan open-ended experiences that support exploration (e.g., books, role play, construction, music).
    Provide intentional strategies such as adjusting environments, positioning resources, or scaffolding learning.
    Cater for safety, developmental appropriateness, and diversity of learners.
  • Educators’ Role in Planning
    Contribute observations and reflections.
    Assist with goal selection and outcome alignment.
    Choose developmentally appropriate materials and experiences.
    Use the environment as the third teacher, encouraging exploration and independence.
  • Intentional Teaching Strategies
    Interact positively and respectfully: eye contact, listening, warm tone, encouragement.
    Use teachable moments to extend children’s learning.
    Ask meaningful questions, model vocabulary, and acknowledge contributions.
    Support children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and language development through everyday interactions.

Course Overview

Every observation tells a story – but what comes next? This course shows educators how to transform children’s interests and strengths into meaningful learning opportunities. You’ll discover how to link goals and objectives to the EYLF outcomes, design engaging experiences, and use intentional teaching strategies that bring learning to life.

Through real examples and practical tools, you’ll learn how to plan experiences that are not only developmentally appropriate but also inspiring, playful, and responsive to each child’s individuality. Most importantly, you’ll see how your role, your interactions, and the environment you create can make every moment a meaningful one.

By the end of this course, you will:

  • Understand how to turn observations into future planning.
  • Link children’s skills and interests to EYLF outcomes and goals.
  • Design experiences that extend learning, curiosity, and wellbeing.
  • Use intentional teaching strategies to enrich everyday interactions.
  • Create environments where children feel valued, engaged, and motivated to explore.

This course is part of our Assessment and Evaluation 101 Series. Check out other courses in this series!

Course Activities

Introduction

  • Welcome to our Assessment and Evaluation 101 Series
  • What you will learn
  • Links to NQF
  • Lessons

  • Planning based on observations
  • Linking to EYLF outcomes
  • Practice selecting experiences and activities
  • Creating goals and experiences
  • Conclusions

  • Knowledge Checks
  • Final Quiz
  • Meet Your Course Authors

    KA

    Karen Atkinson

    Childcare Resources

    With 38+ years of experience in Early Childhood and Adult Education, Karen combines her background as a Teacher, University Lecturer, and RTO Founder to develop research-based, practical learning resources. Her expertise spans educational theory, curriculum design, and neuroscience-informed approaches to effective teaching and professional development.

    SS

    Stephanie Sinclair

    Childcare Resources

    With 15+ years in Early Childhood Education, Stephanie brings experience as a Teacher, Trainer, and Consultant, specialising in curriculum design, play-based learning, and compliance with National Standards. As Co-Director of Insightful Learning and Education, she’s dedicated to helping educators create environments where curiosity and connection thrive.

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