Planting & Growth Observation Journal
Supports agricultural awareness, STEM integration, literacy, and social-emotional development at the Toddler stage.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS At the Farm
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Developmentally appropriate objectives aligned to Toddler for Planting & Growth Observation Journal.
Materials
- Level-appropriate farm-themed materials and manipulatives.
Instructions
Materials
- Clear plastic cups or small transparent containers
- Potting soil and a small trowel
- Fast-growing seeds like beans or grass
- A spray bottle filled with water
- Pre-made observation journals with blank pages
- Large crayons or thick markers
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate fine motor control by scooping soil into containers.
- Use sensory exploration to touch and describe the texture of soil and seeds.
- Understand the basic concept that plants need water to grow.
- Observe and identify changes in the plant over several days.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle and show them the seeds, soil, and cups.
2. Allow each child to touch the dry soil and the seeds to build sensory awareness.
3. Model how to scoop soil into the cup using the trowel, keeping the cup stable on the table.
4. Help each child place two or three seeds on top of the soil.
5. Demonstrate how to gently sprinkle a little more soil over the seeds to cover them.
6. Show the children how to use the spray bottle to mist the soil with water.
7. Place the cups in a sunny window where they can be seen easily.
8. Provide each child with their journal and a crayon to make a mark or scribble representing their planted seed.
9. Return to the window daily to look at the cups together.
10. Encourage children to add a new mark to their journal each time they notice the soil colour change or a sprout appear.
Educator Tip
Toddlers have short attention spans, so keep the planting process quick and hands-on. If a child loses interest, allow them to move to a different activity while you finish the setup for them. You can extend this by taking a photo of the plant each day and printing it for the journals to help them connect the visual change to their drawings.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can successfully place seeds into the container with minimal assistance.
- Note if the child shows curiosity or points toward the window when prompted about the plants.
- Record whether the child engages with the journal by making marks or scribbles after observing the growth.
Educator tip
Guided questioning to encourage language, reasoning, and participation. Differentiate for ability levels; incorporate sensory supports; ensure safety.
Assessment
Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Observation checklist or rubric aligned to developmental stage.