Assessment data can be a powerful tool for identifying learning gaps, informing instruction, and strengthening parent-educator collaboration. However, traditional approaches to collecting and analyzing these data detract from their potential benefits. Assessment data are often not made available until months after an assessment is given, making it difficult for educators to use the data to inform daily practice and for families to track and respond to their child’s progress. Moreover, the data that are made available are often presented in ways that are time-consuming and difficult for educators and families to interpret.

The Measures for Early Success Initiative (Measures Initiative), led by MDRC, is focused on developing new early learning assessments that deliver timely, easy-to-understand, and relevant insights for both educators and families. In the Initiative, interdisciplinary project teams are partnering directly with community members and caregivers to design these new assessments.

Drawing on insights gathered through this process, this publication highlights three features of assessment tools that can help maximize the value of early childhood assessment data for educators and families:

1. Delivery of data frequently and in real time
2. Presentation of data in ways that are easy to understand and comprehensive
3. Assessment tools that tie data to action

When designers make these features a priority, teachers, leaders, and families have the information they need to create more effective learning environments for all children.