A guide to observation in the Primary Classroom

When you enter the classroom, you will find a set of adult-sized chairs. Please be seated and wait for the teacher to speak to you. If possible, she will give you a tour of the classroom and briefly explain the nature and the purpose of the materials. If class is already in session, you will have to do this at another time.

When you sit down, children may come up to you. Please try not to engage them in conversation. A polite Hello and a direct response as to who you are is fine; then quietly ask the child to return to work. The children understand that observers come to watch them working and they will understand your response in that context.

If your own child cries or clings or is silly or ignores you completely, do not be surprised. Children respond differently to having their parents in the classroom than they do in the normal course of the school day or at home. It is the talent of the classroom teacher to deal with your child's response, and it is fine for your and your child to spend the observation time watching the class together if s/he is not able to leave your side.

The teacher will not be able to take time from their classroom duties to converse with you during or immediately after your observation. If questions occur to you while you are watching, please write them down. The teacher or administrator will be glad to answer these questions by telephone or in person. Please check with the secretary to set up a mutually convenient time.

We ask that you stay at least an hour. You are welcome to remain longer if you wish, but you will need to change your position if you wish to stay through circle.