Written by a prolific, well-respected author, this new text teaches students how to observe, document, and assess children's development and progress—emphasizing how powerful ethical, responsible observation can be in a teacher's professional life. The author focuses on observations as an intrinsic part of authentic assessment in ECE. She explains various informal and formal observation strategies, as well as instruction in how to embed observation in the daily routine of the early childhood classroom. Written in a student-friendly voice, the text also explores ways to prevent problems, ways to solve problems, and ways to work cooperatively with parents. Included is coverage of the ethics of observation and the problems of standardized testing of younger children.