ASQ-3 and ASQ:SE-2 are compatible with the current evidence base on kindergarten readiness. "School readiness begins at birth ... everything a child experiences impacts lifelong learning.” (Kindergarten in Kansas parent booklet, 2017, page 3). The ASQ tools start as early as 1 month of age and progress through 72 months, acknowledging the impact of early development on a child’s readiness for school. The key participation of parents or caregivers in the ASQ screening process aligns with the view of parents as a child’s first teacher and the importance of family involvement to kindergarten readiness. 

The tools also recognize that all areas of a child’s development, not just language and math skills, are important contributors to school readiness, as described in NAEYC’s Where We Stand Summary on School Readiness (NAEYC, 2009. Retrieved from http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/Readiness.pdf). Many studies have found that social-emotional development is a crucial factor for school readiness. Children who are ready to learn need skills such as the ability to focus when distracted, the ability to sit still, the ability to persist when discouraged, and the ability to interact with peers. ASQ:SE-2 measures these skills.

ASQ-3 and ASQ:SE-2 also address the areas of development included in state early learning standards, including cognition, problem solving, large and small motor skills, and social-emotional development.