All assessment is completed through authentic measures such as play, observation, collecting work samples, etc. Teachers take anecdotal notes, pictures, collect work samples, record language statements, and so on. Data is entered into the system by standard. Narrative quarterly reports are shared with parents and highlight strengths and areas of needed growth.

Assessment provides educators, parents, and families with critical information about a child’s development and growth. Assessment can do the following:

1. Provide a record of growth in all developmental areas: cognitive, physical/motor, language, social-emotional, and approaches to learning.

2. Identify children who may need additional support and determine if there is a need for intervention or support services.

3. Help educators plan individualized instruction for a child or for a group of children that are at the same stage of development.

4. Identify the strengths and weaknesses within a program and information on how well the program meets the goals and needs of the children.

5. Provide a common ground between educators and parents or families to use in collaborating on a strategy to support their child.