Behavioral Observation and Screening
When the results of screening and observation sessions suggest assessment or evaluation might benefit the child, apply these best practices in this order:
1. Prepare carefully for the meeting. 2. Begin the meeting with a brief overview. 3. Present a blank sample of the specific screening tool or tools. 4. Present the child's results in writing. 5. Be an active listener. 6. Keep the meeting positive. 7. Talk about the program's role. 8. Make an appropriate referral and provide information.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be screened at ____, _____, and_____ or _____ months; and more often if the child is at risk of developmental disability or delay.
9 18 24 30
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
A disorder characterized by delays in motor development and seizures, it often appears in conjunction with a behavioral disorder.
Bipolar Disorder
A disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood and energy.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
A disorder characterized by impulsivity, inattention, and in some cases, hyperactivity.
Cerebral Palsy
A disorder that affects body movement and muscle coordination.
Down Syndrome
A genetic disorder characterized by distinct physical traits and intellectual impairments.
Autism
A group of disorders characterized by social and communication impairments, and restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior.
People-First Language
A method of sentence construction that places people before any condition they have.
At Risk
A phrase used to describe a condition or situation of vulnerability or of being in danger.
Using the Developmental Screening, Assessment, and Evaluation: Key Elements for Individualizing Curricula in Early Head Start Programs
A publication of the Task Force on Screening and Assessment of the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance System (NECTAS) in collaboration with ZERO TO THREE, contains ten guidelines you should follow when screening children.
Developmentally Appropriate Practice
A research-based framework centered on meeting children where they are individually, chronologically (i.e., by age), and culturally.
Fragile-X Syndrome
A syndrome characterized by intellectual disability and behavior disorders, more prevalent and severe in males.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
A syndrome characterized deformities in the joints, fingers, and limbs; atypical behavior; learning disorders; and cognitive impairment.
Early Intervention
A system of services that help children who have a developmental disability or delay.
Neurodevelopmental disorders
Affect the growth of nerves, nerve tissue, and the central nervous system.
__________________ and organizations also provide lists of instruments and links. They may also be obtained from _______________ of educational materials.
Agencies publishers
Best Practice #1 for guideline "Be focused"
Allow enough time. Schedule time to: • review appropriate general information • study the child's file • read the instructions for the observation or screening tool • gather materials • organize space • conduct the session • review their notes • properly document the file
Technology that meets accessibility requirements complies with the requirements of the ______________ _______________________________________.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Which method would you use for the following? write about the development of a skill or ability after it has occurred?
Anecdotal Record
To tell if a typical child is feeling well, look for the three A's of health, which are?
Appetite Appearance Activity
Self-help skills
Are a wide variety of abilities that are useful in everyday life. Also known as adaptive behavior or adaptive skills.
Genetic disorders
Are conditions that are due to an abnormality in the way a body's cells are structured. If a disorder is genetic, it is present at birth, even if it is not diagnosed at that time.
Cognitive abilities
Are intellectual processes that can be measured on standardized tests. Also known as intellectual functioning.
Standardized tests
Are used to document a child's ability to compare and contrast, solve a problem, classify objects, put things in sequential order, arrive at conclusions, and other skills.
Is this observation, screening, evaluation, or assessment? After reading a child's file, a trained adult asks the child to perform specific tasks. The data indicates the child may have a developmental delay or disability, and could benefit from early intervention. The adult refers the family to a medical professional for diagnosis.
Assessment
Common developmental disabilities are?
Autism Down Syndrome Cognitive/Intellectual
What are the four guidelines for observers and screeners of children?
Be informed Be objective and accurate Be honest and fair Be focused
______________ signs include fatigue, disinterest, stealing food, inability to trust, self-destructive behaviors, poor self-control, consistent absence or tardiness, or trying to take on adult responsibilities for other children.
Behavioral
______________ signs include reluctance to go home, wariness of adults, strong startle response, depression, poor memory and concentration, and behaviors that are not age-appropriate. For example, the child may be aggressive or passive, seek attention indiscriminately, be overly affectionate, or withdraw from others.
Behavioral
_________________ signs are observable in the way a child acts.
Behavioral
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Age-inappropriate behaviors
Behavioral sign of child abuse
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Poor memory and concentration
Behavioral sign of child abuse
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Strong startle response
Behavioral sign of child abuse
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Wariness of adults
Behavioral sign of child abuse
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Consistent absence or tardiness
Behavioral sign of neglect
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Fatigue
Behavioral sign of neglect
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Self-destructive behaviors
Behavioral sign of neglect
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Stealing food
Behavioral sign of neglect
Developmental domains
Categorize children's skills and abilities. They include Physical Health and Motor Development, Cognitive Development and General Knowledge, Language and Communication, Social and Emotional, and Approaches to Learning.
Child Care professionals in Florida refer families to the Children's Forum's _________________ or the Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System's _________________.
Central Directory Child Find
Which method would you use for the following? note the presence or absence of demonstrated skills and abilities?
Checklist
Who performs assessment and evaluation processes to determine eligibility for programs and services under the IDEA?
Children's Medical Services
Best Practice #3 for guideline "Be honest and fair"
Conduct sessions in the child's natural setting with familiar staff. Children are most likely to demonstrate their skills: • with a person they know • in a familiar place • using materials they have seen before
Which method would you use for the following? document children's ability to translate their thoughts into words?
Conversations
Child abuse
Defined by Florida law as any non-accidental injury, sexual battery, or injury to the intellectual or psychological capacity of a child by the parent, adult household member, or other person responsible for the child's welfare.
Child neglect
Defined by Florida law as failure to provide things necessary to sustain life, such as adequate food, clothing, shelter, health care, hygiene, and supervision.
The _________________________ __________________________ child abuse investigators, working with law enforcement officials, are the only professionals who can verify the signs of abuse and neglect and take appropriate legal action.
Department of Children and Family's
Cognitive Disabilities
Disabilities that affects self-help skills and the way the brain processes information.
Would you encourage the family to refer, report suspicion to the abuse hotline, or do neither? You are screening a 14-month-old child for the first time, and despite your coaxing, he crawls to you instead of walking.
Do neither
Best Practice #3 for guideline "Be objective and accurate"
Document all relevant information. Relevancy is determined by the observation or screening tool. Behavior not relevant to the current session may be documented later in another type of record.
Best Practice #1 for guideline "Be honest and fair"
Document children's development over time. Bear in mind: • individual children can take more or less time developing than peers • they can move forward, regress, and then move forward again • children may skip a behavior or skill as they move forward • sometimes, children just have a bad day
Which method would you use for the following? identify a child who may be at risk of delay or disability?
Documentation
Which method would you use for the following? relay a suspicion of child abuse or neglect?
Documentation
Would you encourage the family to refer, report suspicion to the abuse hotline, or do neither? You are screening a 10-month-old. You have conducted four screenings over the past three weeks. You find that the child does not engage in play.
Encourage the family to refer
Would you encourage the family to refer, report suspicion to the abuse hotline, or do neither? You are screening a six-month-old child who does not acknowledge your presence in any way.
Encourage the family to refer
Best Practice #4 for guideline "Be objective and accurate"
Ensure documentation is correct and complete. Here's how: • complete documentation as soon as possible • proofread for content errors • check for writing and mathematical errors • wait two or three days, then repeat the process
Best Practice #1 for guideline "Be objective and accurate"
Ensure observation and screening results do not reflect personal feelings. Before an observation or screening session begins: • take a moment to reflect on their own feelings • prepare to focus on the facts produced during the session • disregard any presumptions
Is this observation, screening, evaluation, or assessment? After reading a child's file, a trained adult asks the child to perform specific tasks. The adult confirms the child has a developmental disability and therefore qualifies for programs and services by federal law.
Evaluation
Neglect also includes situations in which the child is deprived of emotional support, love and attention, which causes a disorder called _____________________________.
Failure to Thrive
T or F. A developmental delay is a chronic condition that is diagnosed in childhood and substantially limits major life activities in adulthood.
False
T or F. A responsible provider calms parental fear and anxieties by telling them everything is going to be alright.
False
T or F. An anecdotal record should be written while an event is occurring.
False
T or F. Assessment determines a child's eligibility for federal programs and services.
False
T or F. Child care professionals are not expected to know how to use observation and screening tools.
False
T or F. Child care professionals ask the right questions about a tool before using it with a child, including, "May I use this screen when I am responsible for children who are not being screened?"
False
T or F. Child care professionals in Florida refer families to Children's Medical Services when they feel intervention may benefit the child.
False
T or F. Child care professionals use the Library to find information about observation methods and tools used to perform observations.
False
T or F. Effective practitioners do not review general information before a screening or observation; instead, they familiarize themselves with the child's file.
False
T or F. Families have just one role in the screening process, and that is to give written consent for their children to participate.
False
T or F. If screening results are atypical, a child care professional takes no action.
False
T or F. Mandatory reporters must have proof of child abuse and neglect before reporting cases of it.
False
T or F. Observation and screening are the best ways for a child care professional to confirm a suspicion about a delay or disability.
False
T or F. Observation can verify if children are developing typically, diagnose early signs of delay or disability, and provide a basis for referral.
False
T or F. Observation facilitates early intervention by gathering and reviewing multiple source of information about a child's delay or disability and uses data to improve a child's outcomes.
False
T or F. Price should not be considered when purchasing a screening instrument.
False
T or F. Standardized tests are norm-referenced, which means they are based on a series of quality points; for example, a scale of 1 to 10.
False
T or F. The best way to identify the earliest signs of abuse and neglect are to interview the child.
False
T or F. The three main reasons child care programs observe and screen children are to assess children's educational progress, rate their critical thinking skills, and evaluate their intelligence quotient (IQ).
False
T or F. This course provides all one needs to become a skilled observer of children.
False
T or F. To use frequency counts, note the time when a child abandons one activity and begins another.
False
T or F. When assessment or evaluation might benefit a child, the program's role is to set up sessions and ensure they are done on time.
False
T or F. When screening and observing children, it is important to interpret behaviors and draw conclusions after a single session.
False
T or F. When using a screening instrument, child care professionals follow guidelines during implementation so that parents will be impressed by their professionalism.
False
What is the penalty for failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect in Florida?
Felony of the third degree
Which method would you use for the following? identify how often behaviors to be addressed or accommodated?
Frequency Count
It can be used in almost any aspect of the program that involves human behavior, whether it occurs in a child, a staff member, an entire classroom, a group of staff, or any of these combined.
Frequency count
Use this method to identify behaviors to be encouraged and those which may need to be addressed or accommodated.
Frequency count
U.S. Department of Justice
Good source of information regarding both general and technical questions about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
U.S. Department of Education
Good source of information regarding children with special needs and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
The ________ Effect is a judgment error we make when we allow an overall impression of a person to influence the way we interpret his or her actions.
Halo
H.A.L.T stands for?
Hungry Angry/Anxious Lonesome Tired
What duty are you performing? You find out what languages are available.
I am asking the right questions.
What duty are you performing? You know the tool's target age range.
I am asking the right questions.
What duty are you performing? You learn how many items are screened.
I am asking the right questions.
What duty are you performing? You are trained to conduct screening and observation sessions.
I am following guidelines and best practices.
What duty are you performing? You conduct screening sessions in natural settings.
I am following guidelines and best practices.
What duty are you performing? You only use instruments for their specified purposes.
I am following guidelines and best practices.
What duty are you performing? You answer questions as you share results.
I am involving families
What duty are you performing? You encourage parents to contact you with follow-up questions.
I am involving families
What duty are you performing? You schedule confidential meetings to discuss results.
I am involving families
What duty are you performing? You assess the program's current use of technology.
I am selecting screening tools.
What duty are you performing? You look for accuracy, reliability, and sensitivity.
I am selecting screening tools.
What duty are you performing? You perform research to find suitable endorsements.
I am selecting screening tools.
One of the best ways to find up-to-date information and resources is on the ___________, using a search engine.
Internet
Objectivity
Involves the ability to set aside personal beliefs, values, opinions and biases, and consider only facts.
Subjectivity
Involves the application of one's point of view when determining a course of thought or action.
Presumption
Is a belief about something or someone formed before experience shows it is true. For example, one may presume a child will perform a certain task with ease, only to learn through screening this is not an accurate assumption.
Developmental disability
Is a chronic condition that is diagnosed in childhood and substantially limits major life activities in adulthood, and impacts a child's abilities to perform activities in one or more developmental domain.
Down syndrome
Is a genetic disorder characterized by distinct physical traits and intellectual impairments.
Autism
Is a group of neuro-developmental disorders characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior.
People-First Language
Is a method of sentence construction that places people before any condition they have.
In good faith
Is a moral concept. It means to work with the sincere intention of doing the right thing, with honesty and integrity, and to perform the work at hand with the best effort possible.
At Risk
Is a phrase used after a noun to describe a condition or situation of vulnerability or of being in danger.
Work sample
Is a product created by a child that becomes documentation of the development of a skill.
At-Risk
Is an adjective used immediately before a noun (a person or a thing) that is vulnerable or in danger. (Note hyphenation.)
A rating scale
Is used to measure a behavior, skill, or ability based on a series of quality points or a continuum.
Why are observation and screening important?
It fosters growth and development in every child by determining the child's developmental age appropriate level and by using the information to develop: inside and outside learning spaces personal care routines communication and interaction practices learning activities program policies and procedures
Guideline
It is a general course of action taken to achieve a desired result.
Anecdotal record
It is a narrative account of an event written shortly after it occurred.
Evaluation
It is a process that determines a child's eligibility for federal, state, and local programs and services.
Assessment
It is a process whereby an agency or organization gathers and reviews multiple sources of information about a child's suspected or confirmed developmental delay or disability and uses data to improve a child's outcomes.
Developmentally appropriate practice
It is a research based framework based on meeting children where they are individually, chronologically (i.e., by age) and culturally.
Best practice
It is a specific action taken by experts in the field to achieve a desired result.
Early intervention
It is a system of services that helps children who have a developmental disability or delay.
Sustainability
It is a term used in business. It means continued operations.
Correlated
It is a term used in screening. It means related.
Replicated
It is a term used in screening. It means repeated.
Running record
It is an account of what a child is doing as it is happening.
Observation
It is an ongoing process in which child care professionals recognize and document identifiable developmental milestones as the appear using tools such as checklists, anecdotal records, and running records.
Screening
It is an ongoing process in which child care professionals use specialized observation and documentation tools to identify, document, and monitor typical development or possible developmental delay.
Best Practice #3 for guideline "Be informed"
Know how to use the observation or screening tool before attempting to use it. Be sure to: • read the instructions before the session begins • attend observation and screening training opportunities • keep up with changes in policy and procedure • never interrupt a screening session to read an instruction or ask a question about the tool
Delays can occur in any developmental domain, but the most common ones occur in the _______________________________________ and ___________________________________ domains.
Language and Communication Social and Emotional
_________________________ are the only professionals who can diagnose the signs of delay and disability.
Licensed doctors
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Mandates that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). IDEA Part B addresses children and youth (ages 3-21), while Part C addresses infants and toddlers.
Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA)
Mandates that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). IDEA Part B addresses children and youth (ages 3-21), while Part C is addresses infants and toddlers.
Methodically
Means in an organized, systematic, and deliberate way.
Norm-referenced
Means the results are used to compare the skills of the child to typically developing peers.
Atypical
Means the same thing as NOT typical or NOT expected.
Proactive
Means to address concerns or problems.
Quantify
Means to assess something's numerical value. This is a highly subjective process and is often used to gather an observer's judgments, based on expertise.
Best Practice #4 for guideline "Be honest and fair"
Never observe or screen with the intent of confirming a suspicion of delay, disability, abuse or neglect. Instead: • watch for developmental milestones • document them as instructed • take action required by their program's written policies and procedures
Is this a role of a child care professional? Assess a child for delay or disability.
No
Is this a role of a child care professional? Determine a child's initial and continuing eligibility for services related to early intervention.
No
Is this a role of a child care professional? Diagnose a disability.
No
Is this a role of a child care professional? Make a referral for evaluation.
No
Is this a role of a child care professional? Use developmental milestone charts to confirm a suspicion of delay.
No
Is this a role of a child care professional? Use the word abnormal instead of atypical.
No
Is the following objective or subjective? Left-handed
Objective
Is the following objective or subjective? Obese
Objective
Is the following objective or subjective? Six years of age
Objective
Developmental Milestones
Observable behaviors, traits, skills, or abilities that typically appear at specific age ranges.
Is this observation, screening, evaluation, or assessment? A trained adult watches a child for a half hour as she interacts with other children in the program. The adult documents the child's typical growth and development in the Social-Emotional Developmental Domain in the child's file, writes a note to the parents, and uses the information to plan future activities.
Observation
What is the best way to identify the earliest signs of abuse and neglect?
Observation
What are your roles as a child care professional?
Observation, Screening, and Referral
Best Practice #2 for guideline "Be honest and fair"
Observe and screen when children are at their best. In all children, the surest way to tell if children are at their best is to know their individual physical and mental health trends and patterns.
Best Practice #2 for guideline "Be focused"
Observe or screen one child at a time. To sharpen focus and concentration: • schedule individual sessions for each child • do not allow attention to be drawn away by other children • staff members should work to accommodate a child's session • manage the schedule to allow each session to be conducted properly
Developmental delay
Occurs when a child does not display the skills and abilities typically seen in peers in the same age range.
Children's Medical Services (CMS) defines assessment as?
Ongoing procedures used by appropriate qualified personnel throughout the period of a child's eligibility to identify the following: (A) the child's unique strengths and needs and the services appropriate to meet those needs, and (B) the resources, priorities, and concerns of the family and the supports and services necessary to enhance the family's capacity to meet the developmental needs of their infant or toddler with a disability.
Best Practice #3 for guideline "Be focused"
Pay attention to small differences and details, because it is in those one can see: • emerging trends and patterns of growth and development • the earliest signs of delay or disability • subtle signs of abuse or neglect
Mandatory Reporters
People who must, by law, report suspicions of child abuse or neglect.
_____________ signs of neglect include untreated medical conditions (major and minor), inadequate clothing, consistent hunger, and poor hygiene
Physical
______________ signs of child abuse include bruises, welts, burns, lacerations, abrasions, fractures, wounds and other injuries. Be alert for ones that tend to occur in the same place or repeatedly, and for which there is no plausible explanation
Physical
_________________ signs are observable in the appearance of a child.
Physical
The signs of child abuse fall into what two categories?
Physical Behavioral
The signs of neglect fall into what two categories?
Physical Behavioral
Abuse falls into what three categories?
Physical Sexual Emotional
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Consistent hunger
Physical sign of neglect
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Inadequate clothing
Physical sign of neglect
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Poor hygiene
Physical sign of neglect
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Untreated Medical Conditions
Physical sign of neglect
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Bruises and welts
Physical signs of child abuse
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Burns
Physical signs of child abuse
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Fractures
Physical signs of child abuse
Identify if it is abuse or neglect AND physical or behavioral. Lacerations and abrasions
Physical signs of child abuse
Children's Medical Services (CMS) defines evaluation as?
Procedures used by appropriate qualified personnel to determine a child's initial and continuing eligibility for Early Steps, consistent with the definition of "infants and toddlers with disabilities" in §303.16, including determining the status of the child in each of the developmental areas in 34 CFR §303.322 (c)(3) (ii)
Which method would you use for the following? quantify a child's performance of a skill or a set of skills?
Rating Scale
Frequency count
Records how often a behavior happens.
A time sample
Records what activities a child chooses to do during a given time period, which is usually a half hour.
Validity
Refers to a screening instrument's soundness and legitimacy.
Individualized Care
Refers to attention paid to a child that recognizes and adapts to his or her unique character and physical, emotional, and cognitive traits.
Individualized care
Refers to attention paid to a child that recognizes and adapts to his or her unique character and physical, emotional, and cognitive traits.
Documentation.
Refers to everything in a child's file, but that word can have a special meaning when it is used in reference to child observation. Then, _________________ refers to records that help identify a child who may be at risk of maltreatment, delay, disability, or to relay a of child abuse or neglect.
Confidentiality
Refers to keeping personal information private.
Natural setting
Refers to places a child knows well, such as home, rooms usually occupied by children at the program, school, a place of worship, or the homes of family and friends.
Natural environment
Refers to places the child would typically be, such as home, the child care program, school, a place of worship, or the homes of family and friends rather than a director's office, doctor/therapist's office, or similar places
Natural Environment
Refers to places the child would typically be, such as home, the child care program, school, a place of worship, or the homes of family and friends, rather than a director's office, doctor/therapist's office, or similar places.
Distinct physical traits
Refers to the similar facial and body features that are shared by many people with Down syndrome.
Linguistics
Refers to the type of language used (e.g., English, Spanish, etc.), and to the meaning and complexity of individual words in context.
Phonetically
Refers to the way words sound, rather than how they are spelled. For example, you might record that a child said, "Cookie peas," as opposed to writing, "Cookie, please."
Documented evidence
Refers to written data collected by the program.
Would you encourage the family to refer, report suspicion to the abuse hotline, or do neither? You are screening a child who has multiple injuries in several stages of healing and who appears depressed and anxious
Report suspicion to the abuse hotline
Would you encourage the family to refer, report suspicion to the abuse hotline, or do neither? You are screening a four-year-old who tells you her mother hit her on the back. You look at the child's back and see a bruise.
Report suspicion to the abuse hotline
Best Practice #1 for guideline "Be informed"
Review appropriate general information immediately prior to an observation or screening session. This includes: • developmental domains and milestones • information about the child's abilities and unique needs
Which method would you use for the following? write about what is happening while you are observing?
Running Record
Is this observation, screening, evaluation, or assessment? A trained adult watches a child for a half hour as she interacts with other children in the program. The adult documents the child's atypical growth and development as called for in a tool's Social-Emotional Developmental Domain section, and makes plans to speak to a supervisor about a possible developmental delay or disability in this domain.
Screening
Best Practice #2 for guideline "Be objective and accurate"
Set aside personal beliefs and consider only facts. Use developmentally appropriate practice (DAP ) for each child, follow the law, and honor a professional code of ethics.
Observation and Screening Tools
Specific items that are used to guide an observation and screening session. This term may refer to documents, materials, and equipment, or any combination of these items. Depending on the purpose of the observation or screening, tools may be used, purchased, or created by the child care program.
Observation and Screening Tools
Specific items that are used to guide an observation or screening, including documents, materials, and equipment, or any combination of these items.
Which method would you use for the following? compare a child's development to other children of the same age?
Standardized Tests
Best Practice #2 for guideline "Be informed"
Study the child's file. Look at: • the results of previous observation and screening sessions • notes recorded by staff members • all documentation provided by family members • samples of the child's work
Is the following objective or subjective? Happy
Subjective
Is the following objective or subjective? Nice
Subjective
Is the following objective or subjective? Pretty
Subjective
Observing and screening children also are used to?
Support quality curriculum development, help parents support growth and development at home, allow timely referral for early intervention services, and provide a common reference point and basis for interaction between parents, program staff, and other professionals.
Developmental Domains
These categorize children's skills and abilities.
Mandatory reporters
They MUST identify themselves when they report suspected child abuse or neglect.
Developmental milestones
They are observable behaviors, traits, skills, or abilities that typically appear at specific age ranges.
Which method would you use for the following? document children's attention span?
Time Sample
What are the three main reasons child care professionals observe and screen children?
To foster growth and development in every child, detect early signs of developmental delay or disability, and identify signs of child abuse and neglect.
In Good Faith
To work with the sincere intention of doing the right thing, with honesty and integrity, and to perform the work at hand with the best effort possible
________________ a child's conversations with both peers and adults to document their ability to translate their thoughts into words, and to document development in the Language and Communication, Social and Emotional, and Approaches to Learning domains.
Transcribe
T of F. Child care professionals use terms related to their profession and to at-risk children expertly, and, when creating documentation, they carefully construct concisely-written sentences.
True
T or F Effective child care professionals are aware of the Halo Effect and they ensure it does not happen during an observation or screening session.
True
T or F. A child care professional may encourage family to refer their own child.
True
T or F. A rating scale is used to measure a behavior, skill, or ability based on a series of quality points.
True
T or F. A running record is an account of what a child is doing as it is happening.
True
T or F. A screening instrument should be easily obtained from its manufacturer.
True
T or F. A work sample could be a photograph or a video of a child building a block tower, or a recording of one singing a song or telling a story.
True
T or F. After reviewing screening results, a child care professional may encourage the family to refer a child, report suspicions of abuse or neglect, or do neither of these.
True
T or F. Although providers must not attempt to diagnose a child or confirm suspicion of abuse, they can provide other professionals with information that can help a child at risk.
True
T or F. An anecdotal record tells what a child did, when he did it, how he did it, and what happened afterward. It does not contain references to emotions, feelings, or other details that cannot be measured.
True
T or F. As a child care professional, you must be able to find up-to-date information and resources on your own.
True
T or F. Assessment empowers parents to help their child grow and develop; improves a family's ability to navigate a complex system of services; and may result in a referral for evaluation so eligible children may receive the benefits they are entitled to by federal law.
True
T or F. Child abuse can be physical, sexual, or emotional, and children may display physical and behavioral indicators of such maltreatment
True
T or F. Child abuse can be physical, sexual, or emotional.
True
T or F. Child care professionals can provide other professionals with information that can help a child at risk.
True
T or F. Child care professionals choose their methods of observation based upon the data type they need to collect.
True
T or F. Child care professionals conduct their observations in an informed, objective, accurate, honest, fair, and focused manner.
True
T or F. Child care professionals follow guidelines and best practices during observation and screening sessions so results will be usable.
True
T or F. Child care professionals improve the outcomes for children receiving benefits under the ADA and IDEA by sharing their screening results, preferably in person.
True
T or F. Child care professionals improve the outcomes for children receiving benefits under the ADA and IDEA by sharing their screening results.
True
T or F. Child care professionals must report suspicions of abuse or neglect, and should refer children at risk of developmental delay or disability.
True
T or F. Child care professionals observe and screen children, and may refer families to Children's Forum's Central Directory and Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System's Child Find for assessment and services.
True
T or F. Child care professionals rely on local, state, and federal agencies and organizations to help them assist parents.
True
T or F. Child care professionals select screening tools based on specific quality considerations to ensure they will meet the needs of the children, their families, and the program.
True
T or F. Child care professionals think of families as partners in the observation and screening processes.
True
T or F. Child care programs observe and screen children because these processes support quality curriculum development at home, allow timely referral for early intervention services, and provide a common reference point and basis for interaction between parents, program staff, and other professionals.
True
T or F. Child care programs should support families by observing and screening children through an ongoing, systematic process.
True
T or F. Child neglect is the failure to provide things necessary to sustain life, and children may display physical and behavioral indicators of such maltreatment.
True
T or F. Child neglect is the failure to provide things necessary to sustain life.
True
T or F. Conversations are word-for-word accounts of what children said while being interviewed by a provider. Many times, this is done phonetically. Non-verbal communication, or body language, is also recorded.
True
T or F. During observation and screening sessions, one should focus entirely on the work and the child being considered.
True
T or F. Effective child care professionals create documentation their coworkers and other professionals can use to help children grow and develop to their full potential.
True
T or F. Effective child care professionals document children's development when children are at their best, and in the child's natural setting with familiar staff.
True
T or F. Effective practitioners ensure data does not reflect personal feelings.
True
T or F. External factors, such as strangers who are present, unfamiliar surroundings, or new things can foster anxiety in children.
True
T or F. Focused child care professionals dedicate themselves to the observation or screening session, and give each child their full attention.
True
T or F. For screening to achieve its maximum benefit, family involvement is necessary.
True
T or F. Honest and fair child care professionals observe children, conduct screenings, and document all relevant observations in good faith
True
T or F. If parents display a strong emotion when results are shared, the best way to support them is to stay calm and focused on the facts, but be compassionate.
True
T or F. It is important for child care professionals to be familiar with common developmental disabilities that may affect children in their care.
True
T or F. It is important for child care professionals to be familiar with common developmental disabilities that may affect children in their care.
True
T or F. Knowing who is at risk helps when observing and screening children, because it allows you to watch for and identify the earliest signs of developmental delay, disability, abuse or neglect.
True
T or F. Learning experiences should be adjusted as new information emerges.
True
T or F. Objective, accurate child care professionals create documentation coworkers and other professionals can use to help children grow and develop to their full potential.
True
T or F. Observation guides developmentally appropriate practice, facilities individualized care, and helps the program share important information with parents and others.
True
T or F. Observation, screening, assessment, and evaluation are interrelated processes.
True
T or F. Observers and screeners should know typical and atypical patterns of child growth and development.
True
T or F. Quality child care programs have written policies and procedures on the observation and screening process.
True
T or F. Quality programs have a developmentally appropriate screening schedule for each child, and they share it with the parents.
True
T or F. Quality screening instruments always produce the same results in similar situations.
True
T or F. Quality screening instruments have specific components. These usually include such items as: • a record keeping system • documents to record basic information • and interpretation guides
True
T or F. Quality screening instruments use technology that is user-friendly, meets accessibility requirements, and fits the program's needs.
True
T or F. Someone who is working "in good faith" performs duties with the sincere intention of doing the right thing.
True
T or F. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be screened at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months; and more often if the child is at risk of developmental disability or delay.
True
T or F. The screening instrument must meet the needs of the child, as well as those of the family and program.
True
T or F. The term 'documentation' refers to records that relay a suspicion of child abuse or neglect, or help identify a child who may be at risk of maltreatment, delay, or disability.
True
T or F. Time samples are used to document a child's attention span.
True
T or F. To respond to needs identified by observation and screening, provide individualized care and support the family with resources.
True
T or F. When a program is thinking about buying a screening instrument, it should consider its price.
True
T or F. When a screening instrument is accurate, its results are proven to be true and correct.
True
T or F. When a screening tool is easy to use, staff and parents understand it and the results it produces.
True
T or F. When the results of screening and observation sessions suggest a referral for assessment or evaluation might benefit a child, the program's role is to supply appropriate information, resources, and support to the families while continuing to provide individualized care.
True
T or F. You may share your expertise with others freely, but you need written authorization from parents to share confidential information about a child.
True
Conversations
Word-for-word accounts of what children said while being interviewed by a provider.
Which method would you use for the following? observe a child's skill by using a product they have created?
Work Sample
Best Practice #4 for guideline "Be focused"
Work methodically and thoughtfully. To work methodically, professionals are organized, systematic, and deliberate. To work thoughtfully, professionals think about what is happening carefully, using all of their knowledge, skills, and abilities to identify and document only useful information.
Is this a role of a child care professional? Deliver individualized care.
Yes
Is this a role of a child care professional? Name the developmental domains and cite examples of related skills and abilities.
Yes
Is this a role of a child care professional? Provide a natural environment.
Yes
Is this a role of a child care professional? Provide documentary evidence of observation and screening.
Yes
Is this a role of a child care professional? Refer families to the Children's Forum's Central Directory and Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System's Child Find.
Yes
Is this a role of a child care professional? Use developmentally appropriate practice for every child in the program.
Yes
Is this a role of a child care professional? Work with families who receive benefits under The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA).
Yes
During time sample, when a child ____________ one activity and begins another, the time is noted.
abandons
Observation and screening can help child care professionals identify the signs of child __________ and ____________.
abuse neglect
When using a screening instrument, child care professionals follow guidelines during implementation so that results will be _____________ and ___________.
accurate usable
Family members are always involved in screening, sometimes as ___________ participants.
active
As families move through the assessment or evaluation processes, ________ the child's learning experiences as new information emerges, and be willing to share your expertise (as long as you have written parental consent).
adjust
Sometimes, a list of trusted instruments is developed by an ________ or ______________, such as the ones by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
agency organization
Every adult in Florida is required by law to report any suspected abuse or neglect and can do so _______________. However, people who work with children are, by law, _________________________________.
anonymously mandatory reporters
Child care professionals _____ the right questions about a tool before using it with a child.
ask
Child care professionals do NOT ___________ or ___________ children.
assess evaluate
If several different types of screening methods conducted over time indicate the child is not making progress, talk to the parents about _________________ and evaluation.
assessment
Use time samples to document children's ____________ spans, social _________________, or to see how equipment and materials meet their needs.
attention interactions
If parents display a strong emotion when results are shared, the best way to support them is to stay _____, focus on the facts, and be compassionate.
calm
What are the three categories that risk factors for child abuse and neglect fall in to?
child parent and family societal
Quality programs have a developmentally appropriate screening schedule for each _______ , and they share it with the __________.
child parents
It is vital that a child care professional's observation and screening documentation be as ____________ and ____________ as possible, or a child with a developmental delay or disability could be overlooked.
complete accurate
Child care professionals ______________ concisely-written sentences with care.
construct
Accuracy is strongly ______________ to an instrument's ________________.
correlated validity
Use a checklist when the goal is to note the presence or absence of _________________ skills and abilities.
demonstrated
A _____________________ occurs when a child does not display the skills and abilities typically seen in peers in the same age range.
developmental delay
During an observation session, a trained adult monitors a child as he or she demonstrates identified skills or abilities within a ______________________
developmental domain
Speaking and writing in ways that help communication between you and other professionals and parents is important when the documentation they create may be used by another professional to arrive at a ______________ for disability or begin an ___________________for possible abuse or neglect.
diagnosis investigation
Observation is an ongoing process conducted by child care providers and others to ______________ a child's growth and development.
document
In observation and screening processes, your main responsibility is to ______________ the child's skills and abilities fairly, objectively, and accurately, and work with families to __________ children for further assessment and evaluation.
document refer
Quality screening instruments are ________________ by individuals, agencies, and organizations that are respected within the early education or early intervention communities This indicates the screening instrument is trusted by professionals.
endorsed
Genetics and _______________ play a role in putting children at risk for a developmental delay or disability.
environment
Rating scales can also be used to rate _______________ on their developmental appropriateness.
environments
Child care professionals observe and screen children so they can facilitate the growth and development of ______________________ in their program, detect early signs of developmental delay or disability, and identify signs of child abuse or neglect.
every child
Observation and screening provide an opportunity for communication between parents, staff, and child development specialists because they include written ____________ of a child's growth and development over time. evidence.
evidence
The fourth guideline is to be _________.
focused
Results of a observation session are carefully documented following set ________________ and written ________________.
guidelines procedures
The third guideline is to be _______ and _____.
honest fair
Observation and screening can detect early signs of developmental delay or disability when child care staff members are trained to _____________ and _______________ signs of typical and atypical growth and development.
identify document
The first guideline is to be____________ .
informed
Many children can overcome a developmental delay with classroom _______________________ .
interventions
To work thoughtfully, professionals think about what is happening carefully, using all of their ____________, _________, and _________ to identify and document only useful information.
knowledge skills abilities
A checklist is a ________ of skills and abilities to be observed. When an observer sees the child demonstrate one, he or she places a mark next to the item. The date the ______________ was made is often recorded, but usually nothing else.
list observation
Child care professionals rely on _______, ________, _________agencies and professional organizations to help them assist parents appropriately and responsibly.
local, state, and federal
Children who are at the highest risk for developmental delay or disability tend to be _________ and ___________________.
male living in poverty
Intellectual impairments
means that people with Down syndrome may have a difficult time understanding and processing information.
Be aware that some developmental delays and disabilities can __________ the signs of abuse and neglect.
mimic
Screenings are also conducted to _______________ a child's progress in gaining skills, they may be completed more frequently to guide classroom planning.
monitor
Like observation, screening should take place in the child's _________________________ with familiar people, and performed when he or she is at his or her best.
natural environment
Observation sessions should be performed by a familiar person in the child's _____________________________ at a time when he or she is at his or her best.
natural environment
For screening to achieve its maximum benefit, family involvement is _____________.
necessary
The second guideline is to be _____________ and ______________.
objective accurate
The best way to discern the differences between delays, disabilities, abuse and neglect is to _________________________ children often and know what is typical for each individual.
observe and screen
To work methodically, professionals are _____________, ______________, and _________________.
organized systematic deliberate
Child care professionals use ___________________ language
people-first
Quality child care programs have written ____________ and ______________ about their observation and screening process.
policies procedures
Cognitive or intellectual disabilities may be diagnosed in children based on the way they _____________________ information and perform ____________ skills.
process and use self-help
Child care professionals use terms related to their _________________ and at-risk children expertly.
profession
Only a ___________________________ can determine if child abuse or neglect is occurring. Your job as a child care professional is to report suspicions of abuse and/or neglect to the DCF Abuse Hotline.
qualified professional
Observation and screening can help parents support their child's growth and development at home by increasing the volume and ___________ of information available to them.
quality
Use ____________________ to quantify a child's performance of a skill or a set of skills or see where a behavior or skill is on a developmental continuum.
rating scales
Quality screening instruments always produce the same results in similar situations. People who test screening instruments sometimes refer to this trait as __________________. ______________ is highly desirable in any testing instrument, including ones used for screening.
repeatability repeatability
Running records are also used to document how children are _______________ to their environment. For example, children's actions are recorded as they move between chosen activities.
responding
Use standardized tests to document the development of a child compared to other children of the ________ age.
same
Technology that fits the program's needs helps the _________________ document screening results accurately and efficiently.
screeners
Screening instruments are _____________ in regards to ethnicity, culture, and linguistics. Screening instruments should not be biased against any group.
sensitive
Use an anecdotal record to write about the development of a ________ or _________.
skill ability
User-friendly technology is appropriate for the ________________ of the people using it.
skill levels
During a screening session, trained adults identify and measure specific __________ and ____________ as indicated by a screening instrument.
skills abilities
Child care professionals _________________ in ways that help them communicate with other professionals and with parents.
speak and write
Standardized tests have __________________________________ for administering, scoring, and interpreting the results.
specific procedures
Typically, _______________________ are norm-referenced.
standardized tests
Observation and screening support quality curriculum development by focusing learning goals and objectives, lesson plans, and teaching strategies on the development and implementation of activities that ___________________ the child's skills.
strengthen
As a child care provider, it is your duty and your legal responsibility, according to Chapter 39 of the Florida Statutes, to report any ______________ case of child abuse or neglect.
suspected
Quality screening instruments using _______________ should be user-friendly, meet accessibility requirements, and fit the program's needs.
technology
Observation and screening allow _________ referral for intervention. The ___________ signs of developmental delay or disability are identified, the ___________ the outcome for the child.
timely earlier better
Use a running record to ________ a child's choice of activities or behaviors over a short period of time.
track
When a screening instrument is accurate, its results are proven to be ______ and ___________.
true correct
The work sample can be _______ dimensional, such as a drawing or writing sample, or _______ dimensional, such as a sculpture.
two three
Screening is an ongoing process conducted by child care providers and others to verify that a child is developing __________ or ___________ early signs of delay or disability.
typically identify
Screening takes place recurrently using an instrument that is proven to be _________, ___________, and _________.
valid accurate reliable
Use a ______________ to allow others to observe children or their work for themselves.
work sample
As a child care professional, you must be able to find up-to-date information and resources on _______________.
your own
Best practice #2 results of screening and observation. Begin the meeting with a brief overview.
• Define the terms observation and screening. • State that these are routine processes in quality programs. • Explain why the program observes and screens enrolled children. • Talk about when and how the program conducts observation and screening sessions. • Describe how the program uses the data to help children. • Respond to questions.
Best practice #4 results of screening and observation. Present the child's results in writing.
• Emphasize the child's current strengths and skills. • Explain areas in which their child might benefit from classroom interventions or further assessment. • Tell parents that the results of screening tools used by only one screener cannot be used to determine the status of a child's development. • Relate your desire and willingness to assist and collaborate with the parents in deciding how to proceed.
Best practice #8 results of screening and observation. Make an appropriate referral and provide information.
• Encourage the parents to make the first call. • Show them how all of the information they need has been provided. • Explain the benefits of the family in seeking services themselves. • Clarify how the program can best participate. • Ask parents to sign a release of information form. • Check for understanding before continuing.
Best practice #3 results of screening and observation. Present a blank sample of the specific screening tool or tools.
• Explain the tool, the skill areas it addressed, and its scoring system. • Clarify that the instrument is not an intelligence test or an evaluation tool. • Describe when and how the tool was used with the child.
Referrals from child care providers should be made to the following organizations:
• Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System (FDLRS) • Children's Forum's Central Directory • Florida Office of Early Learning Child Care Resource & Referral Network (CCR&R) • Child Find
Remember to search the Internet for information you need. When you find information, what three questions should you ask yourself before using it as a resource?
• Is this information provided by an expert? • Can this information be verified by another source? • Is this the most current information available on this subject?
Best practice #5 results of screening and observation. Be an active listener.
• Listen very closely to what parents say. • Think before responding. • Ensure everyone has a chance to speak without interruption. • Ask respectful questions. • Check for understanding. • Watch facial expressions and non-verbal responses.
For child care providers seeking information about specific diabilities, can use one of these three organizations.
• National Center on Child Care Quality Improvement (NCCCQI) • National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY) • National Early Childhood Technical Assistance System (NECTAS)
Once you have shared the results of a screening with parents, take the following steps:
• Provide individualized, developmentally appropriate care • supply parents with information • participate in the child's intervention team • be the parent's knowledgeable partner
Best practice #7 results of screening and observation. Talk about the program's role.
• Relate the program's relationship to organizations that perform assessment and evaluation, and how the program provides vital information to them. • Describe IDEA Parts B and C, if applicable, and how the program might assist a child who qualifies for benefits.
Best practice #6 results of screening and observation. Keep the meeting positive.
• Remember, this is an opportunity to share information. • Focus on what you know is true, according to the results. • Be calm and focused, and help parents to do the same.
Best practice #1 results of screening and observation. Prepare carefully for the meeting.
• Schedule a specific time to discuss results. • Provide the results as soon as possible. • Hold the meeting where you can maintain confidentiality. • Gather copies of the key documents. • Just before the meeting, review the materials. • Reflect on what you need to say and the best way to say it.
Referrals from child care providers should be made to the following organizations.
• The Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resource System (FDLRS) • Children's Forum's Central Directory • The Florida Office of Early Learning Child Care Resource & Referral Network (CCR&R) • Child Find
What sort of questions should a child care professional ask before using a tool with a child?
• What does the instrument screen? • What is the target age range? • What languages are available? • Does the screener need to be specially trained? • How many items are screened? • How long does it take to administer? • How is it implemented and scored?
Quality screening instruments have specific components. These usually include such items as:
• a record keeping system • documents to record basic information • scoring and interpretation guides
Children with Down syndrome share a number of physical characteristics, including:
• a small head in proportion to his or her body • flattened facial features • a small mouth and ears • eyes that slant upward and may be rounded • broad hands, a single crease in their palms, and short fingers Children with Down syndrome may also have: • intellectual impairments • stomach problems • problems with memory, concentration, and judgment • hearing problems
Effective child care professionals dedicate themselves to the observation or screening session and give each child their full attention. They:
• allow enough time • observe or screen one child at a time • pay attention to small differences and details • work methodically and thoughtfully
What should policies and procedures outline at the minimum?
• an orientation process for parents • methods of obtaining written parental permission • planning for and scheduling sessions • documenting results • confidentiality • sharing results with others appropriately • communicating results to parents • making referrals
Ideally, the role of families in the screening process is to:
• be fully aware of the screening program and understand its purpose • consider screening as a positive service • give written consent for their children to participate • provide information that could facilitate the interpretation of results • participate in the observation and screening process appropriately • meet with staff members in person to discuss screening results • pursue intervention services when they may benefit the child
There are multiple ways to report suspicions of child abuse and/or neglect. Child care professionals can:
• call the Abuse Hotline (1-800-96Abuse or 1-800-962-2873) or call through the TDD line • report online through the Abuse Hotline website at https://reportabuse.dcf.state.fl.us/ • fax the information to the Abuse Hotline at www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/abuse/docs/faxreport.pdf
Children who have an intellectual disability may have difficulties:
• caring for themselves • understanding health and safety issues • communicating with others • learning necessary life skills (eating, toileting, etc.) • directing their own activities
What are some examples that developmental delays and disabilities mimicking abuse and neglect?
• children with Autism may bang their heads, leaving bruises • children with a disability that is impacting motor development may fall easily, and have abrasions or lacerations • a child with a cognitive impairment might be overly or inappropriately affectionate
Quality child care programs have a plan for orienting families to the observation and screening process. Families should know their role during implementation and the:
• differences between observation and screening • reasons for observing and screening • types of screening tools used at the program • method used to communicate results • why, how, and to whom referrals are made
Effective child care professionals observe children, conduct screenings, and document all relevant observations in good faith. They:
• document children's development over time • observe or screen when children are at their best • conduct sessions in the child's natural setting with familiar staff • never observe or screen with the intent of confirming a suspicion
Quality screening instruments are?
• easy to use • accurate • affordable • readily available • sensitive • reliable • have specific components • be endorsed • user-friendly technology
What are the benefits of assessment?
• empowers parents to help their child grow and develop • improve a family's ability to navigate a complex system of services • result in a referral for evaluation so eligible children may receive benefits they are entitled to under the Individuals with Disabilities Act or IDEA
Effective child care professionals create documentation that can be used by others to help children grow and develop to their full potential. They:
• ensure observation and screening results are objective • verify results do not reflect subjective feelings • set aside personal beliefs and consider only facts • document all relevant information • make sure documentation correct and complete
What are some benefits of observation?
• facilitate curriculum development • guide developmentally appropriate practice • assist in providing individualized care • help share information with parents and others • reveal signs of abuse and neglect
Families may share information about the child that could impact screening results, such as:
• family dynamics • health issues, including premature birth • the child's routines and behaviors at home • issues impacting the child and other concerns • possible strategies, if further action is necessary
Children who are at risk of abuse or neglect tend to:
• have parents who live in poverty, did not finish high school, abuse alcohol or other drugs, and/or do not have supportive relationships • be born prematurely, have a chronic illness or disability, and/or possess a characteristic identified by a parent as undesirable • live in communities that have high rates of poverty and violence and/or a cultural acceptance of abuse and neglect
What are the benefits of screening?
• identify specific areas of concern • determine if further assessment or evaluation may be necessary • provide a basis for referral • empower parents with information to make decisions • present a basis for necessary and ongoing communication with parents and others
Child care providers have specific responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law that prohibits discrimination of people who are disabled. Specifically, they must:
• make reasonable modifications in policies, procedures, and practices • remedy barriers to mobility and communication • provide auxiliary aids and services necessary to communicate with children with disabilities
Infants (birth to 18 months of age) with Autism:
• may avoid gazing directly into the eyes of their parents • when spoken to, may not babble in response • may not smile in response to a smile
Toddlers (18 to 36 months of age) with Autism:
• may not point to an object of interest or follow someone's point • may not look to a trusted adult for help • may flap or wave their arms, or rock back and forth • may become fixated on an activity or object • can be prone to tantrums
To use observation and screening to help children with developmental delays or disabilities, child care professionals:
• observe and screen regularly • watch for signs and changes • document professionally, over time, using a variety of methods • are familiar with the Central Directory and Child Find • refer when appropriate • provide appropriate support during sessions
To help children who are victims of abuse or neglect by observing and screening them:
• observe regularly for signs of abuse or neglect • watch for changes in behavior • document professionally and immediately • be familiar with the Florida Abuse Hotline • provide appropriate support during sessions
Families provide important documentation, such as:
• permission to screen • enrollment information • results of previous screenings • health records
Effective child care professionals know the typical and atypical patterns of child growth and development, are familiar with the child being observed or screened, and understand the program's observation and screening policies and tools. They:
• review appropriate general developmental information • study the child's file • read the instructions for the observation or screening tool
Child care professionals can also make a substantial contribution toward the progress of children who receive benefits under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, a federal law that guarantees a free and appropriate public education to every child. This is best done by interacting with others who are helping a child with disabilities through a team approach. Offer to:
• share results of your observation and screening sessions • provide expertise related to the child's activities at the program • be on the child's intervention team
Use developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) when observing and screening a child to:
• show sensitivity toward chronological, individual, social and cultural experiences • help him/her behave naturally during an observation or screening session
Quality programs have a strategy for communicating results to the parents. It is best if families are given the chance to discuss the results of every screening session at a confidential meeting. This:
• strengthens the partnership between provider and parent • allows time for everyone to ask questions • present the results in a professional manner • answer questions
Before a quality instrument is released by its manufacturer to be used with children, experts test it. They study:
• the content of the screen, or what is included or excluded • how children of different backgrounds respond to the instrument • how the instrument functions in various program types • whether or not the results can be replicated over people and time • if data collected by the instrument is consistent
Child care professionals involve families in the observation and screening process because it facilitates a partnership that benefits the child. They understand:
• the importance of families • the role of families in the screening process • how to guide families through assessment and evaluation
If the price of the instrument and any supplemental items (such as materials or updates) cannot be supported by a program's budget, it should be rejected. Think about:
• the program's mission and goals • the needs of the children, families, and staff • current financial priorities and long-term plans • the impact of the purchase on the program's sustainability
To guide families through its ongoing screening and observation process, a program should have:
• written policies and procedures • a plan for orienting families to the process • a developmentally appropriate screening schedule for each child • a system for documenting parental permission to screen • a strategy for communicating results to the parents • knowledge about how and when to make referrals, and to whom
