One of the main activities in the Results Matter program is the measurement and reporting of child and family outcomes.
Child outcomes are measured through authentic assessment practices through which providers and families observe children in their everyday routines, activities and places and collect documentation that illustrates what children know and are able to do in areas key to future success. Three early child outcomes are used nationwide to reflect the integrated nature of child learning and development and to make it possible for comparable data from a variety of assessment instruments to be combined for further analyses.
The three child outcomes are:
- Children have positive social skills including positive social relationships.
- Children acquire and use knowledge and skills including language and early literacy.
- Children take appropriate action to meet their needs.
The measurement of family outcomes is completed through an annual survey that helps programs and policy makers understand how well the early childhood system is doing in supporting families in their ability to understand and meet the needs of their children. Five family outcomes are used nationwide.
The five family outcomes are:
- Families understand their child's strengths, abilities, and special needs.
- Families know their rights and advocate effectively for their child.
- Families help their child develop and learn.
- Families have support systems.
- Families access desired services, programs, and activities in their community.