Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

What is the best use of a developmental screening checklist with preschool children?

1. To profile children's individual learning styles

2. To determine eligibility for special education

3. To identify children needing in-depth assessment

4. To modify strategies for children with delays

The correct answer is: To identify children needing in-depth assessment

The best use of a developmental screening checklist with preschool children is to identify those who may need further in-depth assessment. Developmental screening checklists are designed to quickly assess a child's skills and abilities in various developmental domains such as physical, cognitive, language, social, and emotional. By using these checklists, educators and caregivers can pinpoint potential areas of concern that may warrant a more comprehensive evaluation. This early identification is crucial because it allows for timely intervention. If a child scores below expected levels in certain areas, it indicates the need for further investigation to determine the underlying issues and tailor support accordingly. This proactive approach helps ensure that children receive the resources they need to thrive before they enter more structured educational settings. The other options may seem relevant but do not encapsulate the primary objective of a developmental screening checklist as effectively. Profiling individual learning styles, determining eligibility for special education, and modifying strategies for children with delays are important processes but typically occur after a developmental concern has been identified through screening and in-depth assessments.