According to Ruth Anne Hammond, sensitive observation is "a way to understand what [children] are experiencing." Often, as parents, we make assumptions about what our children are thinking, feeling, or cuing when, in reality, we misread the situation or make an interpretation based on our experiences or hunches.
a brief historyThis type of observation came from the work of Emmi Pikler, a Hungarian pediatrician, who began an orphanage in Budapest, Hungary called Lóczy. According to Lilith Magazine, "A 1968 World Health Organization study found that children reared at Lóczy turned into well adjusted adults - a stunning outcome for children raised in orphanages." Based off countless scientific research, data, and success stories, this model of care began to spread worldwide. It spurred the work of various protege's like Madga Gerber, Janet Lansbury, and Ruth Anne Hammond. Additionally, it has been well accepted as a standard treatment of care in day care centers, parent education, and parenting practices across the globe. benefitsAccording to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (1998), there are numerous benefits to sensitive observation including:
what observation is and is notIn order to better understand your role as an observer, it is helpful to know what observation is and what it is not. Observation is...
beginningWhen you choose a moment to actively observe, take note of a few things:
In order to streamline your thoughts and stay within the bounds of sensitive observation, draw a line down the middle of your paper. On the left side, write OBSERVATION and on the left write WONDERINGS. Observation Your observations should be only what you see or hear in their exact form.
Wonderings Your wonderings are how you are staying engaged with the observation. This is the place where you can later, in reflection, match what you were considering with what you were noticing happen.
final notesRemember that sensitive observation is a way to foster your attachment so it should be done in a safe, meaningful way. If your child clearly needs you to attend, it is important you attend to them. This is simply a way that you can progress your parenting philosophy while deepening the connection between you and your child. It should be done at a time that feels appropriate and respectable to all people.
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Emily BarstadParent Educator Archives
January 2020
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