For teachers to make informal assessments of pre-K classes, which would apply?

• A. Administer standardized tests every month.
• B. Only rely on parent reports.
• C. Teachers make classroom observations each targeting different skills.
• D. Record only attendance data.

Answer: (C)

Informal assessment for young children centers on frequent, in-context observations of how kids are developing across a range of skills. When teachers watch children during daily routines and learning activities, they gather meaningful, real-time data about language, social-emotional growth, thinking and problem-solving, and fine motor skills. Observing across different tasks and settings gives a rich, authentic picture of each child’s strengths and areas needing support, which can then guide instruction and pacing. This approach respects developmental appropriateness and avoids the drawbacks of formal testing in the early years.

Monthly standardized tests aren’t suitable here because they’re not developmentally appropriate for pre-K, can be stressful for young learners, and may not accurately reflect how a child learns in everyday classroom contexts. Relying only on parent reports misses the child’s current classroom performance and day-to-day behaviors. Recording only attendance data tells you who was present but not what they learned or how they’re progressing. Therefore, teachers observing children across different skills to document ongoing development best serves informal assessment in a Pre-K setting.