How do I assess pre-primary children without exams?
Assess pre-primary children by observation: watch and note what they do and say during play and activities, keep samples of their work (drawings, mark-making), take photos of constructions (following privacy rules), use simple checklists for milestones, and talk with children and parents. NCF-FS recommends no tests or exams in the foundational stage; assessment should support learning.
What this means in practice
Good assessment answers three questions: What can the child do now? What is the next step? How can I help?
Tools
- Anecdotal notes
- Checklists by domain
- Portfolios of work
- Photo or audio records with consent
- Parent conversations
Reporting to parents
Use descriptive, positive comments with examples and next steps, not marks or ranks.
Keeping observation manageable
Teachers often worry that observation takes too much time. Keep it simple: focus on two or three children a day, use sticky notes or a phone note, record one sentence of fact and one next step, and file notes weekly. Over a term, you will have a rich picture of every child without long writing sessions. Checklists for key milestones fill gaps quickly.
Practical next steps
- Choose two or three children to observe each day.
- Keep a portfolio for each child.
- Review progress termly.
Common follow-up questions
Do pre-primary children need report cards?
Descriptive progress reports are better than marks.
What does NCF-FS say about tests?
No tests or exams in the foundational stage.
Sources
- NCERT: National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage 2022
- NAEYC: Developmentally appropriate practice
Course facts from APTTI's published course pages, checked 10 October 2026. Editorial policy.