Child Assessment

Lil’ Bears conducts assessments for every child enrolled, following a systematic process using both Child Plus and DRDP. Child Plus is a Head Start Data Management System used to document and produce parent, individual, group, etc. reports. DRDP or Desired Results Developmental Profile is a program designed for educators to observe, document, and reflect on the learning, development, and progress of children, birth through 12 years of age, who are enrolled in programs such as Lil’ Bears.

This process is ongoing and includes observing and collecting information, evaluating their skills, and comparing them to specific objectives of learning and development, and then planning curriculum to scaffold learning. We look for development in the areas of Approaches to Learning- Self-Regulation, Social and Emotional, Language and Literacy, English Language, Cognition-including Math and Science, Physical Development-Health, History-Social Science, and Visual and Performing Art. By following this system, we hope to encourage school readiness and determine any needs that might require additional resources.

Information that is collected includes documented observations of children, photographs of projects or constructions, samples of their work. Observations are conducted at childcare during normal daily activities and routines and are sensitive to abilities and disabilities. Information from families is also helpful to track their progress and determine needs.

The collection of information is ongoing, and assessments are conducted quarterly in February, June, August, and November.  Parents/guardians will be notified when an assessment for their child is complete and are encouraged to meet with Gloria to discuss goals for learning and development. All child and family information are confidential and shared only with professional resources with parental permission and collaboration.  Any referrals for professional services will be supported by Lil’ Bears Childcare to include ongoing consultation with families and professional resources. Professional development for Lil’ Bears staff will include training in referral processes.