Tools to learn about development

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You can use many different observation methods/tools depending on your specific goal for your observation. You can use casual observation for minor, day-to-day changes or to determine if planned observation is needed. You can use planned observation when you want concrete evidence for a specific strength or weakness that you were unsure of before, so that your teaching decisions are backed up by evidence to make explaining to parents easier. You can use an anecdotal record when trying to understand a certain incident or situation. You can use a checklist for developmental milestones to keep track of children's individual progress on the continuum. You can keep a running record to understand the needs of individuals during certain times/activities. You can use a tally event to understand a child's interest or behavior. You can also capture photos and video to show parents their child's development. 
To effectively use these tools, you need to know how to observe the child/behavior, reflect on how best to help the child, and plan a way to work this into the program.