Example of a written record in respect of identified signs of distress in early childhood development?

Date: October 15, 2021

Child's Name: Emily Smith
Age: 3 years old

Observations:

- Emily has been exhibiting signs of distress during drop-off at daycare. She clings to her mother and cries inconsolably when she is left in the care of the daycare provider.
- Emily has also been having trouble sleeping at night. She wakes up frequently and has difficulty falling back asleep. She often cries out for her parents during the night.
- Emily has become more withdrawn and quiet in social situations. She used to be very outgoing and playful, but now she seems hesitant to interact with other children and adults.
- Emily has started having frequent tantrums and meltdowns over small things. She becomes easily frustrated and has trouble calming down once she is upset.

Action Taken:

- I have spoken to Emily's parents about my observations and concerns regarding her behavior. They have agreed to schedule a meeting with a child psychologist to further assess Emily's emotional well-being.
- I have been providing extra comfort and reassurance to Emily during drop-off at daycare. I have also been working with her on developing coping strategies for managing her emotions.
- I have been keeping a detailed record of Emily's behavior and any changes that occur. This will help track her progress and identify any patterns or triggers for her distress.

Follow-Up:

- I will continue to monitor Emily's behavior and provide support as needed. I will also communicate regularly with her parents and the child psychologist to ensure that she receives the appropriate care and interventions.
- I will work with Emily on building her social skills and confidence in social situations. I will also continue to provide a safe and nurturing environment for her to express her emotions and work through her distress.

Date: March 10, 2023
Time: 10:30 AM

Child's Name: Lily Johnson
Age: 2 years 6 months

Observations:

Physical Signs:

- Persistent crying or fussiness
- Difficulty sleeping or frequent night waking
- Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits
- Unexplained physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, stomachaches)

Emotional Signs:

- Withdrawal from activities or people
- Irritability or frequent tantrums
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Anxiety or nervousness

Behavioral Signs:

- Regression in previously mastered skills (e.g., toilet training)
- Clumsiness or motor difficulties
- Difficulty focusing or paying attention
- Over-reliance on self-soothing mechanisms (e.g., rocking)

Communication:

- Difficulty expressing themselves verbally or through gestures
- Use of repetitive or unusual speech patterns
- Lack of response to verbal cues

Social Interactions:

- Avoidance or difficulty interacting with peers
- Difficulty initiating or maintaining social interactions
- Passive or withdrawn behavior in group settings

Cognitive:

- Difficulty following simple instructions
- Problems with memory or recall
- Limited imagination or difficulty engaging in pretend play

Other Concerns:

- Witnessing or experiencing traumatic events
- Family stressors or changes
- Developmental delays or suspected disabilities

Actions Taken:

- Noted observations in child's developmental record
- Spoke with parents to discuss concerns and gather additional information
- Referred child for further assessment and support, as necessary

Signed:
Name of Early Childhood Educator: