CDC Observation Guidelines
Welcome to the Mt. SAC Child Development Center (CDC). We are pleased that you have
chosen our center for your observation. Our program will be in operation during your
visit so please respect the work of the children and teachers by following the guidelines
below.
-
- 1Check-In
Stop at the front desk to check in and put on a name tag. Wear your name tag during
each observation.
- 2Turn off Cell Phones
Turn off cell phones - no calls or texting in the center.
- 3No Photos
Do not take photos of the children or the environment. If you need photos for your
assignment, speak with the teacher.
- 4Restricted Items
Do not bring food, drinks, gum, backpacks, purses, etc. into the classroom.
- 5Know your Assignment
Be familiar with the assignment before you arrive. There is no space in the classroom
to spread out notebooks, textbooks, etc.
- 6Speak with your Professor
If you do not understand the assignment you need to speak with your professor. The
classroom staff’s main responsibility is to care for the children and they may not
be available to help you with your assignment.
- 7Confidentiality/Privacy
Do not discuss children’s behavior with staff, parents, or other students. All observations
are to be kept confidential.
- 8When in Observation...
Sit in chairs provided, not on classroom furniture. Choose a location that allows
you to see and hear the children, without sitting too close or standing over them.
It may make them feel uncomfortable and inhibit their play. At the end of your observation,
put away the chair.
- 9Avoid Distractions
Avoid sitting with other students and chatting.
- 10When to Intervene During Observation
If you observe a child engaged in harmful, dangerous, or inappropriate behavior, notify
the center staff immediately. Intervene only if a child is in immediate danger. Otherwise, do not interfere with children’s play.
- 11Students & Children
Students may not be left alone with children for any reason nor are they allowed in
any classroom alone.
- 12Be Considerate
Remember, you are visiting our classroom in order to complete your assignment, but
we live here all week. Be considerate of our classroom, children, and staff. If you
have questions concerning our program, speak to the teacher at a convenient time.
Thank you for your cooperation and enjoy your visit.
Note: If the student refuses to comply with these policies, the Child Development Center
reserves the right to prohibit her/him from continued observation.
The Child Development Center is not responsible for lost or stolen personal property.