About the AEDI

The Australian Early Development Index (AEDI) is a population measure of young children's development. Like a census, it involves collecting information to help create a snapshot of children's development in communities across Australia. Teachers complete a checklist for children in their first year of full-time school. The checklist measures five key areas, or domains, of early childhood development:

  • Physical health and wellbeing
  • Social competence
  • Emotional maturity
  • Language and cognitive skills (school-based)
  • Communication skills and general knowledge

These areas are closely linked to the predictors of good adult health, education and social outcomes.

As a population measure, the AEDI places the focus on all children in the community; it examines early childhood development across the whole community. By moving the focus of effort from the individual child to all children in the community we can make a bigger difference in supporting efforts to create optimal early childhood development.

In 2009, for the first time, the AEDI was completed nationwide, providing a snapshot of the early childhood development outcomes of Australian children.

Commonwealth Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations

Telethon Institute for Child Health Research

Murdoch Childrens Research Institute

The Centre for Community Child Health

 

Last Updated 09-Dec-2009. Authorised by: Michelle Mollard. Enquiries: Mary Sayers.
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Warning: This website and the information it contains is not intended as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified practitioner.