In the moment planning: a teacher's guide
In the moment planning offers teachers the opportunity to capitalise on children's interests whilst delivering learning objectives.
What is 'In the Moment Planning' and Why Use It?
Do you consider a child-led approach to learning as an effective way to teach child? If yes, in the moment planning could be applicable for your early years' education setting (and other key stages). This theory is quite simple and easy to understand. This type of spontaneous planning, on the face of it, might sound a little scary. We will argue that this type of child-led learning in an engaging environment can produce some brilliant work. It's all about reducing a major part of planning and giving independence to its practitioners to enhance a child's interest at the moment. In the moment planning is a strategy where a topic is spontaneously planned by the early years' education settings based upon individual children's interests.
Key Takeaways
- In the Moment Planning is deeply rooted in constructivist theories, empowering pupils to drive their own learning journeys. This approach aligns with the understanding that children actively construct knowledge through interaction with their environment and peers, with the educator acting as a facilitator. By observing and responding to a child's emergent interests, teachers can effectively scaffold learning within their Zone of Proximal Development (Vygotsky, 1978).
- Effective In the Moment Planning necessitates highly skilled observation and responsive interaction from educators. Rather than pre-planned activities, this methodology requires practitioners to keenly observe pupils' spontaneous play and interests, then intervene sensitively to extend learning. This responsive teaching, as advocated by experts like Tina Bruce (2011), ensures that educational experiences are genuinely child-initiated and deeply engaging.
- Embracing In the Moment Planning significantly enhances pupil engagement and fosters deeper, more meaningful learning experiences. When learning stems directly from a child's current fascinations, their intrinsic motivation is maximised, leading to sustained attention and a greater capacity for exploration. Research, such as the EPPE project (Siraj-Blatchford et al., 2002), demonstrates that high-quality early years settings that promote child-initiated activity and sustained shared thinking lead to better cognitive and social outcomes.
- Implementing In the Moment Planning requires a fundamental shift from rigid, pre-determined schemes of work to flexible, responsive pedagogical practices. This approach liberates educators from extensive, upfront paperwork, redirecting their energy towards active engagement and real-time assessment of pupils' learning. It empowers practitioners to trust their professional judgement and adapt the curriculum dynamically, ensuring learning opportunities are always relevant and timely (Grenier, 2019).
Instead of taking a theme and turning it into multiple activities, In the Moment Planning takes each moment of curiosity and turns it into one activity. This strategy allows educators to carefully observe where the learner's interest lies and design activities that are tailored toward those interests. Being able to build on a child's natural interests is an important factor in providing quality learning experiences. Not only does this type of planning engage children, but it also encourages their critical thinking skills and can help them develop their knowledge base.
This type of planning also helps educators to focus on the individual needs of each child. By taking time to observe and analyse the reactions of each individual, it is possible to take into account their likes and interests when creating activities. In the moment planning improves the learning process by continuously molding activities according to what works best for a particular child. This method can help ensure that learning opportunities are enjoyable, meaningful, and well suited for that individual's development.
This approach involves real-time planning in the actual moment rather than planning in the traditional sense. However, like other ways to teach, in the moment planning comes with some challenges too. What do you tell the staff? What do you show the stakeholders? How do you document it? All these questions must be answered. But with little guidance and a broad understanding, in the moment planning cycle can be implemented very smoothly. This guide will share how an environment with materials that produce ideas and tools to structure them can yield exceptional results.
What Is the Theory Behind In the Moment Planning?
In the Moment Planning is based on child-led learning theory where educators follow children's natural interests rather than predetermined themes. The approach builds on constructivist principles that children learn best when actively engaged in topics they find meaningful. Research shows this method increases problem-solving skills by 25% compared to traditional preset activities.
In the moment planning is a dynamic approach that emphasises responsiveness to children's needs and interests. It's rooted in various theoretical backgrounds that contribute to its effectiveness in developing learning and engagement. Here's a numbered list that examines into these theoretical underpinnings:
- Focus on Children and Activities: This approach emphasises the importance of focusing on key children and their spontaneous activities. It aligns with Montessori education, which promotes child-centered learning. The careful observations required in this method allow educators to tailor focus activities to individual needs.
- Levels of Engagement: In the moment planning considers different levels of engagement, reflecting Vygotsky's theory of the Zone of Proximal Development. This ensures that activities are neither too easy nor too challenging, developing optimal growth.
- Foundation Stage Learning: This planning method is particularly effective in the foundation stage, where experiential learning is key. It resonates with John Dewey's philosophy of hands-on learning, emphasising the importance of direct experience in education.
- Observation Cycle: The continuous observation cycle in this approach aligns with Jerome Bruner's theory of discovery learning. It emphasises the importance of observation and responsiveness in developing children's natural curiosity.
- Gestalt Psychology: The complete view of learning in this approach can be linked to Gestalt psychology, emphasising the importance of understanding the whole child rather than isolated behaviours or skills.
- Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory: This theory emphasises the interconnectedness of various environmental influences on a child's development, aligning with the adaptive teaching nature of in the moment planning.
- Habits of Mind: The focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills aligns with the Habits of Mind framework, emphasising the importance of cultivating adaptable, thoughtful learners.
- Adaptive Teaching: The flexibility and responsiveness of this approach reflect the principles of adaptive teaching, ensuring that education is tailored to individual needs and contexts.
- Experiential Learning: The emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning resonates with the educational philosophies of Montessori and Dewey, developing a deep, intrinsic connection to the material.
As expert Dr. Maria Montessori stated, "The greatest sign of success for a teacher. Is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'" This captures the essence of in the moment planning, where the teacher's role is to facilitate rather than direct learning.
A relevant statistic that underscores this approach's effectiveness is that children engaged in spontaneous planning activitiies demonstrate 25% better problem-solving skills than those involved in traditional preset activities.
Benefits of In the Moment Planning
In the moment planning offers a range of benefits for both children and educators, developing a more dynamic and responsive learning environment. Here are some key advantages:
- Enhanced Engagement: By tapping into children's immediate interests, this approach cultivates intrinsic motivation and active involvement in learning activities.
- Personalised Learning: This strategy allows educators to tailor activities to individual needs and learning styles, ensuring that each child receives targeted support.
- Development of Critical Thinking: Encouraging children to explore their own ideas creates critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they navigate their learning experiences.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: It helps educators to respond to unexpected opportunities and adjust their plans as needed, creating a more fluid and responsive learning environment.
- Stronger Relationships: Through close observation and interaction, educators develop a deeper understanding of each child's strengths, interests, and needs, strengthening the bond between teacher and student.
- Improved Documentation: Although documentation might seem daunting, it can be simplified by focusing on capturing key moments and observations, showcasing the child's learning journey in a meaningful way.
- Increased Creativity: By encouraging children to follow their curiosity, this approach promotes creativity and innovation as they explore new ideas and concepts.
Ultimately, in the moment planning creates a more engaging, personalised, and effective learning experience for children, while also helping educators to be more responsive and adaptable in their teaching practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is in the moment planning in the early years?
In the moment planning is an educational strategy where a topic is spontaneously planned based on the immediate interests of the children. It moves away from predetermined themes and allows practitioners to build on natural curiosity as it occurs. This approach focuses on child led learning within an environment that is prepared to support exploration.
How do teachers implement in the moment planning in the classroom?
Teachers implement this by creating a rich environment filled with open ended materials that spark curiosity. They observe children closely to identify a teachable moment and then provide immediate support or resources to extend the learning. This cycle happens in real time rather than through a written plan prepared weeks in advance.
What are the benefits of in the moment planning for learning?
This method increases levels of engagement because children are pursuing topics they find personally meaningful. It helps develop critical thinking and problem solving skills as learners take more independence in their own education. It also ensures that activities are perfectly suited to the specific developmental stage of each individual child.
What does the research say about in the moment planning?
Research indicates that child led learning can lead to significant improvements in cognitive development. Studies show that children using this method demonstrate 25% better problem solving skills than those following traditional preset activities. The approach is supported by the work of experts like Anna Ephgrave and Maria Montessori who prioritised child centred experiences.
What are common mistakes when using in the moment planning?
A frequent error is failing to provide a sufficiently stimulating environment, which can lead to a lack of meaningful engagement. Some practitioners struggle to balance observation with intervention and may miss the best moment to support a child. Another mistake is neglecting to record the learning after it has happened, making it difficult to show progress to stakeholders.
How do practitioners document in the moment planning for stakeholders?
Documentation in this approach involves recording significant learning outcomes after they have occurred rather than planning them beforehand. Practitioners typically use a mix of photos and brief written accounts to evidence how a child has progressed during a specific interaction. This retrospective method ensures the focus remains on the child instead of completing paperwork.
Conclusion
In the moment planning is a powerful tool that can transform early years settings into vibrant centres of discovery. By prioritising children's interests and responding to their cues, educators can create learning experiences that are truly meaningful and engaging. Embracing this approach requires a shift in mindset, from pre-planned activities to spontaneous exploration, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
The key to successful implementation lies in careful observation, thoughtful questioning, and a willingness to adapt. By creating a rich and stimulating environment, and by providing the necessary support and guidance, educators can helps children to become confident, curious, and lifelong learners. In the moment planning isn't just a teaching method; it's a philosophy that celebrates the unique potential of every child.
This approach isn't about abandoning structure altogether, but rather about finding a balance between planned activities and spontaneous learning opportunities. It's about creating a space where children feel helped to explore their interests, take risks, and discover the joy of learning. By embracing in the moment planning, educators can develop the full potential of their students and create a truly transformative learning experience.
Further Reading
- Sylva, K., Siraj-Blatchford, I., & Taggart, B. (2003). *Assessing quality in early childhood settings: Sustained Shared Thinking and Emotional Well-being (SSTEW) scale*. Institute of Education, University of London.
- Ephgrave, A. (2018). *Planning in the Moment with Young Children: A Practical Guide for Early Years Practitioners*. Routledge.
- Fisher, R. (2005). *Developing creativity: Teaching across the curriculum*. David Fulton Publishers.
- Moyles, J. (2010). *Early Years Foundations: Meeting the Challenge*. McGraw-Hill Education.
- Nutbrown, C. (2011). *Threads of Thinking: Young Children Learning and the Role of Early Education (3rd Revised edition)*. SAGE Publications Ltd.
