The Griffith Mental Development Scales (GMDS - 3rd)

Griffiths III, formally called the Griffiths Scales of Child Development, Third Edition, is a standardised, play-based developmental assessment for children from birth to 5 years 11 months. It provides an overall measure of development and a profile of strengths and needs across five areas.

What does Griffiths III assess?

The assessment includes age-appropriate activities across five developmental scales:

• ‍Foundations of Learning: early learning skills such as attention, memory, reasoning, problem-solving and play.‍
• Language and Communication: understanding and using language, with some consideration of social communication.‍
• Eye and Hand Coordination: fine motor control, manual dexterity and visual-perceptual skills.‍
• Personal-Social-Emotional: independence, sense of self, interaction with others and aspects of emotional development.‍
• Gross Motor: posture, balance, movement and whole-body coordination.

What happens during a Griffiths III assessment?

The child completes play-based and structured activities selected for their age and developmental level. Tasks may involve toys and other materials, movement, communication, matching, construction and practical problem-solving. The child psychologist may adjust the pace, provide breaks and consider the child’s communication, sensory and physical needs. The time required varies according to the child, the activities administered and other clinical considerations.

Parents or carers are usually asked about the child’s developmental, health and family history. Information from childcare, preschool, school or other professionals may also be considered when relevant and with consent.

How are Griffiths III results interpreted?

Results can provide an overall developmental score and a profile across the five scales. The psychologist considers the pattern of results, observations during the assessment and relevant background information. Language, cultural context, health, hearing, vision, motor skills, attention, engagement and previous opportunities to practise particular skills can all affect performance.

Griffiths III is a developmental measure. It is not a stand-alone intelligence, academic achievement or diagnostic test. It cannot establish a diagnosis, determine treatment, or guarantee funding, service eligibility, school placement or educational adjustments by itself. Findings should be considered as part of a broader clinical assessment when those questions are being explored.

Who can use Griffiths III?

Griffiths III is a restricted assessment. Practitioners require recognised training and registration as a Griffiths III user to purchase and administer the instrument. Families can ask the clinic whether a child psychologist with the required Griffiths III training is available and whether this assessment suits the referral question.

Is Griffiths III the right assessment for my child?

The appropriate assessment depends on your child’s age, strengths, current concerns and the questions that need to be answered. Learn more about developmental assessments for children and early intervention support, or book an initial consultation to discuss suitable next steps.