A time sampling observation for a 4-year-old child in an early years setting.

A time sampling observation for a 4-year-old child in an early years setting. Time sampling involves observing the child's behavior at specific intervals or during predetermined time periods:


Child's Name: [Child's Name]

Date of Observation: [Date]

Observation Context: This time sampling was conducted during a morning playtime session in the preschool classroom.


Time Sampling:


Interval 1 (Start Time: 9:00 AM):


[Child's Name] is seen playing with building blocks at a table.

[He/She] is stacking the blocks carefully, creating a tall tower.

[Child's Name] is talking to [Peer's Name] sitting next to [him/her] about the tower's height.

Interval 2 (Start Time: 9:15 AM):


[Child's Name] has moved to the dramatic play area.

[He/She] is pretending to cook in the toy kitchen, using plastic utensils and pots.

[Child's Name] engages in role-play with [Peer's Name], taking turns as the chef and customer.

Interval 3 (Start Time: 9:30 AM):


[Child's Name] transitions to the art corner.

[He/She] is drawing a picture with crayons and paper.

[Child's Name] appears focused on coloring within the lines, showing fine motor skills.

Interval 4 (Start Time: 9:45 AM):


[Child's Name] is back at the building block table.

[He/She] has joined a group of children building a collaborative structure.

[Child's Name] is actively participating in designing and adding blocks to the structure.

Interval 5 (Start Time: 10:00 AM):


[Child's Name] has moved to the reading nook.

[He/She] is sitting on a cushion, listening to the teacher read a story.

[Child's Name] is engaged in the story, occasionally pointing at pictures.

Analysis and Reflection:

During the time sampling, it is evident that [Child's Name] engages in a variety of activities throughout the morning playtime session. [He/She] demonstrates social skills during cooperative play, creativity during imaginative play, and fine motor skills during drawing. Additionally, [Child's Name] participates actively in both structured and unstructured activities, showcasing a well-rounded development.


Teacher's Signature: _______________________


Time sampling provides educators with a structured way to observe a child's behavior over specific time intervals, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of how the child engages in various activities and settings within an early years environment.