According to Cohen and Swerdlik (2018), assessment instruments are systematic and structured methods that allow for the reliable collection of data on psychological variables.

Reliability → produces consistent and stable results.

Standardization → has uniform rules and procedures for application.

Relevance → useful for the area of development or skill being studied.

Sensitivity → detects small changes in the child's development.

•Cognitive (intelligence, memory, attention).

•Motor (gross and fine coordination).

•Language (comprehension, expression, communication).

•Socio-emotional (interactions, emotional regulation).

Adaptive (daily living skills).

🔹 By type

•Standardized tests (e.g., Bayley Scales).

•Checklists (developmental checklists).

•Observation tools (behavioral records).

•Developmental scales (Denver II, Battelle).

•Interviews (structured or semi-structured with parents/caregivers).

Area assessed: Cognitive, motor, language, socioemotional, and adaptive.

Target age: 1 to 42 months.

Description: Comprehensively assesses early development in different areas.

Example in early stimulation: Allows identification of language or motor delays to design an intervention plan.

Area Assessed: Communication, motor skills, cognition, adaptation, and socialization.

Target Age: 0 to 7 years.

Description: Combines observation, interviews, and structured tests to assess child development.

Example in child psychology: Detects special educational needs and guides early intervention programs.

🦋Bayley, N. (2006). Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (3rd ed.). San Antonio, TX: Harcourt Assessment.

🦋Newborg, J. (2005). Battelle Developmental Inventory, Second Edition (BDI-2). Itasca, IL: Riverside Publishing.