Observing is an important part of being a school-age staff member. This gives you time to think about the learning environment and what it has to offer, as well as brainstorm ways you would like to enhance it. In this observation activity, you will take a look at the school-age learning environment while thinking about the creative arts. Complete the observation form below, share and discuss your work with your supervisor, trainer, or coach.

The Creative Arts Subject Areas

• The Visual Arts: self-expression, visual and tactile art, print and craft media, analysis and interpretation
• Literature: poetry, illustrations, writing, Caldecott Medal and Honorbooks, storytelling, reading, and speaking
• Music: sound, pitch, rhythm, singing, playing, musical games, listening, creative movement
• Dance: body awareness, fundamentals of movement, creative expression, multisensory integration
• Drama: acting, pantomime, improvisation, characterization, play production
• Discovery: science, connecting with nature, cause and effect

Take a look around the school-age learning environment. Chances are you will spot many of the creative arts subject areas already in place. Record the area, activity or material you observed, how it was being used and which creative arts subject areas you feel it applies to.