Table 1.

Description of domains assessed for the Australian Early Development Census

Domain	Areas assessed
Physical health & wellbeing	Physical readiness for school day (e.g. dressed appropriately, fed) Physical independence Gross and fine motor skills
Social competence	Overall social competence Responsibility and respect Approaches to learning (e.g. completion of work, following instructions, adaptability) Readiness to explore new things
Emotional maturity	Pro-social and helping behaviour Anxious and fearful behaviour Aggressive behaviour Hyperactivity and inattention
Language & cognitive skills	Interest in literacy/numeracy and memory Basic literacy and advanced literacy Basic numeracy
Communication skills & general knowledge	Communication skills and general knowledge (e.g. story-telling, imaginative play, articulation, understanding of others)