Using Standards and Assessment in Early Childhood Education

Learning Standards Social and Emotional Development Social relationships Self regulation Emotional and behavioral health Creative Arts Expression Music Creative movement and dance Art and drama

Language Development Receptive language Expressive language Literacy Knowledge and Skills Reading and writing Phonological awareness

Cognitive Skills Math skills (number concepts, measuring, patterns, classification) Scientific skills Social Studies Family and community People and the environment Physical Development Gross and fine motor skills Health practices

Where Do Standards Come From? NAEYC Program Accreditation Standards Relationship Curriculum Teaching Assessment of child progress Health Families Community Relationships Physical environment Leadership and management

State Early Learning Standards – Each state has their own standards Federal Early Learning Standards – Head Start mandates inclusion The Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – children with disabilities rights to services No Child Left Behind – improving children academic skills, standardized tests to improve performance

What is Assessment? Understand what is to be assessed Ongoing multiple types observations Align assessment with standard and with curriculum Use assessment to benefit the children

Types of Assessment Developmental screening Observing and listening to children Using conversations and discussions Using check list Using technology and work sample Parent-produced material Standardized tests for school age children

Important Principles About Assessments Should be kept confidential Use assessment to connect with families Assessment should be comprehensive Use assessment for planning curriculum Use assessment to benefit children with disabilities