Version Sem. 2, 2021
Learning Story
Name of child: Oscar H.
Age of child (y.mm): 2.11
Date of observation: 16.07.21
Name of observer: Tom H.
o Physical development
o Cognitive development
o Social development
o Emotional development
Story
The swing station is one of the favourite spots of all children, including Oscar. There are only two swings but
always have many children waiting. To support children’s waiting skills, educators encourage children to count
when they are waiting. They need to count to 20 to have a turn.
Today, Oscar, I followed you to the swing station. As there were some other children playing on them, you waited
patiently on the bench nearby. I heard you counting quietly as soon as you sat. Not long after, you turned and said,
“Tom, I count to 20”. I replied, “That’s quick. How about you counting again and count louder so your friends will
hear you and they will give you a turn?”. You did not mind counting one more time. This time, a girl (4.5 years old)
came and did the counting with you. She used a loud and clear voice which inspired you as well. You counted
louder and clearer “1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11”, skipped 13,14,15, and continued with 17,18,19, 20. As the girl kept
counting to 27, and so did you. You proudly said, “I count to …7.” In the end, you both had a turn to do swinging.
Analysis of Learning
Oscar, you demonstrated understanding of tun-taking and rules. You knew that you need to sit on the bench and
count to 20 to wait for your turn.
You also demonstrated ability to learn through interactions with others, especially that of more experienced peer.
Oscar, you were motivated to rote count in company of the older child.
Oscar, you have shown ability to count to 10 yourself, and count that of higher number with the support of others.
What next?
To support Oscar’s counting skills, I will:
– sing counting songs such as five currant buns, five cheeky monkeys, this old man.
– use felt boards and relevant props when singing those songs.
– support him to count things in his environment. For example, “how many slices of
sandwich/grapes/cheeses do you have?”, “Let’s count how many children/educators today?”.
Links to EYLF Outcomes – Limit to 2 outcomes using the format: EYLF [numbers]: full statement
EYLF [1.4] – children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respect. Oscar engages in and
contribute to shared play.
EYLF [5.1] – children demonstrate an increasing understanding of number using vocabulary to name the numbers.
use language to communicate thinking about quantities, and to explain mathematical ideas.
