Children develop and learn best when their environment is tailored to their individual needs, supported through careful observation, informed assessment and dynamic planning - a cycle which is the bedrock of good early years practice. Although the EYFS recommends that observation, assessment and planning should be linked in a constant, cyclical process, in practice this can be a significant challenge. This book presents an integrated framework which puts the cycle into practical terms, bringing it all together to ensure a seamless process and to support you in this vital part of your work. The focus is on the critical links within the cycle and combines theory with proven good practice, including: Making and recording observations effectively and efficiently How observations should inform next steps, assessment and planning Bringing all the information together into a cyclical process Exploring potential challenges Using reflective practice to refine and improve your techniques Rich in practical examples and case studies that illustrate how the cyclical framework works in practice, this is an excellent resource for early years practitioners and students looking to improve their observation, assessment and planning techniques. "Observation, Assessment and Planning in the Early Years – Bringing it All Together, actually does bring it all together. Kathy Brodie has linked theorists from the past to the present, skilfully connecting to the revised EYFS. Early Years students and practitioners will have the opportunity to reflect on the innovative ideas that she has suggested. Kathy has also included detailed information on observing SEN children. This modern update to observation, assessment and planning is a must read for the early years sector." Laura Henry, Managing Director, Childcare Consultancy "This is a very well researched and practical guide to observation, planning and assessment in the Early Years. Kathy has collected together both historical and current thinking and ideas around the subject and then presented them in a way that is easy for the reader to access, understand and, more importantly, apply. The structure and format of the book helps the reader to check their understanding of the key learning points and then supports them in working through any challenges that they may have along with answers to key questions. Observation, Planning and Assessment in the Early Years is an essential read for all Early Years Practitioners from those with experience to those just starting out." Alistair Bryce-Clegg, Early Years Consultant "This is a wonderful and timely resource to help practitioners make and use well informed judgements of young children's learning and achievement. The four threads of observation, assessment, next steps and planning are skilfully woven together. Plentiful exemplifications and case studies vividly illustrate theoretical points and give young children a central place in the book." Marion Dowling, Early Years Specialist and Vice President of Early Education