Directions

1. Don't coach your child. The purpose of the screening is to find out which skills your child has already mastered and which skills are not yet strong.
2. Find a quiet time to use the tool. Set aside about 10-15 minutes to complete it.
3. Sit side-by-side with your child in front of the computer screen. Give your child control of the mouse only if your child knows how to use it.
4. Click here to try a sample question. This will familiarize your child with how the screening tool works.
   • Point to the pictures on the page and say to your child: "Let's look at some pictures. I will ask you a question about them, and you point to (or click on) the picture that is the best answer. Let's try one."
   • Because this is a sample question, you may give hints and feedback to make sure your child understands the instructions.
5. When you're ready to start, get your child settled and then begin. Read aloud the question that appears at the top of each page slowly, clearly, and word for word. It's important to say the exact words on the screen. Do not rephrase the questions or put them into your own words.
6. Ask your child to point to or click on the best answer. Once your child has settled on an answer, don't change it. Don't give hints or second chances.
7. Keep your child focused with these tips. If your child:
   • Wants to stop. Say, "We have just a few more. Let's try to finish."
   • Stops paying attention. Take a short break. Start with the next unanswered item. If your child is not able to start again, restart the screening tool at the beginning a few days later.
   • Asks for help. Say, "Try to do it yourself." You can repeat a question, but don't offer more help.
   • Says the answer instead of pointing to or clicking on it. Say, "Can you show me? Put your finger on it."
   • Points to more than one picture or changes an answer. Say, "Can you pick just one?" Click on your child's final answer.
   • Asks if the answer is right. Give a vague answer: "You're doing a really good job." Respond the same way whether the answer is right or wrong.
   • Answers too quickly, or points to the picture in the same position every time. Say, "Take your time. Look at all the pictures before you decide." Your child may be tired. Take a short break.
8. From time to time, say encouraging things like, "You're doing a great job!" But don't let on that an answer is right or wrong. For example, don't say, "Good," for a correct response and nothing when the answer is wrong.

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