NAEYC required assessment items are those that are considered essential to program quality AND must be met by programs in order to earn and maintain NAEYC Recognition or Accreditation.

It is imperative that programs understand and properly document required assessment items. Programs rated “No” on any one of the required assessment items during an application review or site visit will receive a decision of “Defer” regardless of the program’s performance in relation to all other assessment items and best practices.

Click here for a list of required items by tier.

Required Item Issue | Application Review Process

Through the application review process, if the assessor determines that a required assessment item has not been met during the scoring, a detailed description of the failure will be provided within the comments, and the program will receive a “Deferred” decision. The program can refine documentation and resubmit one time for reconsideration. Programs have 30 days following the initial deferral to resubmit. Once documentation is re-submitted, the program will receive an updated decision.

Required Item Issue | Site Visit Process

Through the observation site visit process, if the assessor determines that a required assessment item has not been met during the visit, the following steps will occur:

1. Onsite Documentation
   

   • A detailed description of the unmet item will be provided by the assessor while onsite via the Required Item Report Form.

2. Program Response (within 3 business days)
   

   • The program must email the completed Required Item Report Form to [email protected].
   • When completing the form, programs should:
     • Provide a clear narrative response that addresses the specific item noted by the assessor.
     • Include relevant context that may not have been observable during the site visit (e.g., routines, practices, or policies that support the item).
     • Attach supporting documentation or evidence, such as: photos or samples of materials, schedules or lesson plans, staff training records or policy excerpts.
     • Explain any corrective actions taken since the visit, if applicable.
   • This information helps NAEYC understand the full context and make an informed decision.

3. NAEYC Review and Decision
   

   • NAEYC will review the submitted form and supporting materials and respond within 30 days with a final decision regarding the required item.

Critical Incidents: If an assessor observes any child in immediate risk for harm or abuse, the assessor will notify the program administrator immediately and may be required to contact the appropriate authorities. An observation may be terminated, and the entire visit may be terminated.