How to Identify Tools for Needs Assessment for Childcare

Efficacy of a child care program is contingent upon a needs assessment. Tools such as the Environmental Rating Scale or the Parent-Child Rating Scale are invaluable instruments designed to identify the needs of children in a child care arrangement and determine appropriate programming. The ultimate goal of testing and analyzing data is to improve programs and ensure healthier outcomes for children. A variety of organizations and websites provide resources to specific instruments used in needs assessments.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Social service contact information

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Instructions

• 1

  Access the National Child Care Association website (AmericaTakingAction), which will

  provide connection to sites such as NAEYC and Head Start. These organizations can provide the necessary tools used for needs assessments in childcare.

• 2

  Go to the Children's Institute website. You will find an extensive list of frequently used tools used such as the Background Information Firm and the Child Rating Score.  Also included are the descriptions regarding length, scoring, and ordering instructions.

• 3

  Call your local social services department. Social services agencies possess resources such as the Child Care Self Assessment Guides. The guides were developed to encourage child care professionals to conduct periodic reviews of the program and to assess needs and improve upon current practices.

• 4

  Refer to the American Academy of Pediatrics website. Categories include Resources for Professionals and topics such as Model Child Care Health Policies.