How to Write Learning Stories: Templates and Examples for EYLF

What Are Learning Stories?

Learning stories are narrative-based assessments that document children's learning in a meaningful, holistic way. Developed by Margaret Carr in New Zealand, they have become a key documentation method in Australian early childhood education.

Why Use Learning Stories?

Learning stories capture the richness of children's learning in context. They celebrate children's strengths and competencies, make learning visible to families, connect observations to EYLF outcomes, build a picture of each child's learning journey, and are more engaging than checklists or tick-boxes.

The Learning Story Structure

1. The Story (What Happened?)

Write a narrative of the learning moment. Use present tense to bring the story to life. Include what the child said, did, and how they interacted with others and their environment.

2. The Analysis (What Learning Is Happening?)

Connect the story to EYLF outcomes. Explain what skills, dispositions, and understandings the child is demonstrating.

3. The Opportunities (What Next?)

Describe how you will extend and support the child's learning going forward.

Learning Story Template

Here is a simple template you can use:

Story Title

Choose a title that captures the moment.

Date and Context

When and where did this happen? Who was involved?

The Story

Write 3-5 sentences describing what happened. Use the child's name and include direct quotes where possible.

EYLF Connections

List which outcomes and sub-outcomes this connects to.

What This Tells Us

2-3 sentences interpreting the learning significance.

Where to Next

2-3 sentences about how you will extend this learning.

Tips for Writing Great Learning Stories

Be Specific

Instead of "Sarah played with blocks," write "Sarah carefully balanced three rectangular blocks on top of each other, adjusting their position until the tower stood straight."

Include the Child's Voice

Quote children directly when possible. Their words reveal their thinking and understanding.

Focus on Strengths

Learning stories should celebrate what children CAN do, not what they cannot. Frame observations positively.

Keep It Manageable

A learning story does not need to be a novel. A well-written paragraph with clear EYLF connections is valuable.

Make It a Habit

Set a goal of writing 2-3 learning stories per week. Rotate through children so everyone is documented regularly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Writing about the activity instead of the learning
• Being too vague or generic
• Missing the EYLF outcome connections
• Only documenting planned activities (spontaneous moments are gold)
• Waiting too long after the event to write

Sharing with Families

Learning stories are a wonderful way to communicate with families. Share them digitally or as printed copies, invite families to contribute their own observations, use learning stories in parent-educator meetings, and create portfolios that families can treasure.

Digital Documentation

Modern tools can streamline your documentation process. ECT Planner's Storybook Studio helps you create beautiful learning stories with built-in EYLF alignment.

Try Storybook Studio Free →