What’s New About the 3s
The third editions of the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3) bring exciting updates. Here are some key highlights:
- Enhanced Content: The third editions incorporate recent research and best practices in early childhood education.
- Revised Items: Some items have been modified or reworded to better reflect current quality standards and practices.
- Streamlined Administration: The assessment process has been refined to include only a 3-hour observation. There is no longer an interview.
Click on the image of the documents below to learn more about some of the new points in the 3s:
What Can You Do to Prepare Now?
As you prepare to transition to the third editions, consider the following steps:
Read the Scales to Learn More: The ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3 are available for purchase in both English and Spanish. You might also be able to borrow a scale from a local lending library. These scales can be found at most retailers, such as Teachers College Press, Kaplan Early Learning, Red Leaf Press, and Amazon.
- Become Familiar: Take the time to read through ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and/or FCCERS-3 based on the setting or age group(s) you serve. This will help you understand the items and indicators. The scales include many Notes for Clarification that further explain requirements for each item, so plan to read through them thoroughly over several sessions with breaks in between.
- Talk with Others: Share your reactions and questions with co-workers or colleagues. Different points may stand out to different people, so these conversations can be very helpful in getting to know the scales. These discussions can happen casually or as part of staff meetings.
Access NCRLAP's Online Resources:
- Some initial documents are ready now, with more to be added over the coming months.
- Reviewing existing resources for the revised editions is also beneficial. These resources support good practices and positively impact 3s scores, even if they don't cover new or updated requirements.
Reach Out with Questions: Let NCRLAP know what your needs are. This feedback will help in developing additional resources and training materials.
Participate in an Outreach Assessment Using the 3s: Consider participating in these practice assessments to further build an understanding of the third editions and how they bring value for your programs. For more information, see below.
Begin to Think About Self-Study: Versions of the Thinking More worksheets are available for each of the scales and can be found in the Resource section of this webpage. Other good options for starting a self-study include:
- Carefully think about one item at a time, reflecting on whether the requirements are already in place. If the requirements are not in place, consider how these items could be helpful and bring about positive change in the environment.
- Think about small steps that can be taken easily to build habits over several weeks or begin to make adjustments to the space, furnishings, display, materials, or the daily schedule and activities.
