What is one assessment tool used frequently in early childhood education?

Observational checklists or portfolios are widely recognized as effective assessment tools in early childhood education. They allow educators to gather information about a child's development and learning in a natural and ongoing manner. Using observational checklists, teachers can systematically observe children in various play and learning activities, noting skills, behaviors, and interactions that are essential for understanding a child's progress and needs.

Portfolios collect a range of a child's work over time, providing a comprehensive view of their growth and achievements. This approach emphasizes individual learning trajectories and offers insights that standardized tests may overlook, particularly since early childhood development can be highly varied and individualized. By focusing on children's actual activities and accomplishments rather than just performance on isolated tasks, observational checklists and portfolios support a more holistic view of each child's learning journey.