Insights Brief: Re-introducing the ELOM 4&5 Targeting Tool

This short-form tool is derived from the well-established ELOM 4&5 Years Assessment, part of the broader ELOM suite developed to measure early childhood development in the South African context. The ELOM TT is a five item version of the ELOM 4&5 that can be administered in about 15 minutes. It is intended to identify children who are falling far behind in their development and who are, therefore, most likely to benefit from targeted support – whether that means a specific intervention, a referral to social support services, or closer attention in the classroom.

What’s Inside

• Description of the Targeting Tool and why it was developed.  
• An explanation of when and how it should be used. 

Why It Matters
When resources are limited, targeting matters. Early identification drives meaningful intervention – catching developmental delays early can change the trajectory of children’s lives. The ELOM 4&5 Targeting Tool provides practitioners and organisations with a simple but powerful way to identify children falling far behind, enabling targeted support when it matters most. 

Use this tool to focus resources where they will have the greatest impact for children.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL INSIGHTS BRIEF HERE

Title: Re-introducing the ELOM 4&5 Targeting Tool

Author: Dr Caylee Cook (Research Manager at DataDrive2030)

Published: November 2025