Documentation is a process of observing, collecting, and organizing evidence of children's knowledge, skills, and dispositions. Noting that documentation can be used as an effective method for assessing children's growth and development over time, this 20 minute videotape discusses characteristics of documentation in the early childhood classroom. The video first explores the benefits of the use documentation, specifically, how it helps: (1) meet demand for accountability; (2) teach through interactive experience; (3) teach more effectively; (4) meet the special needs of children with disabilities; and (5) show the importance of learning. The video then explains what and when to document, highlighting three "windows" or frameworks: documenting individual growth and development; documenting learning experience of the class as a group; and documenting the early childhood teacher's role in the learning experience. Specific methods for documentation are then detailed in five clusters: individual portfolios; project narratives; observation of child development; display of individual or group products; and recording of self reflections. The video concludes with suggestions for getting started with documentation, including selecting one or two items to collect or document at intervals over the year, such as writing samples, and writing the descriptions of products for display. (HTH)