Observe, Respond, Extend: Infant & Toddler Science Thinking Tool (Birth–3)

Use this quick daily tool to notice and build on science thinking during routines and everyday moments with infants and toddlers, birth through age three. The printable observation form guides educators to notice children’s exploration, repetition, predictions, and interest, then respond and extend learning with simple language and one small change. Record the child or group, date, routine, and a next step such as repeating an experience, adding a safe material, or sharing observations with the team or family. Reach for it during play and caregiving routines to support responsive, hands-on early science.