This practical guidebook aims to show preschool, kindergarten, and primary teachers how to refine their literacy evaluation practices through careful "kidwatching." By observing and recording children's literacy development, teachers also develop new understandings of the ways children think and learn. Ultimately, through kidwatching, teachers plan curriculum and instruction that are tailored to individual strengths and needs. The book provides a framework for engaging in systematic, yet very personalized data collection in all areas of literacy. In each chapter, the book provides: a description of how kidwatching enhances teaching and learning; specific guidelines and suggestions for kidwatching; practical tools and resources to be used in documentation and analysis; and empowerment for children--a chance to evaluate and revalue themselves by partnering with teachers to document and reflect on their knowledge. Chapters in the book are: (1) What Is Kidwatching?; (2) Sociocultural Knowledge and Experience; (3) Print Awareness; (4) Books and Book Handling; (5) Talk; (6) Oral Reading and Miscues; and (7) Writing. Appended are many sheets of reproducibles. An index is also included.(Contains 87 references.) (NKA)