This study comprises of three datasets containing the findings of a baseline survey conducted as part of the evaluation of the 'Eager and Able to Learn (EAL)' programme, the pilot programme designed by Early Years, which is the organisation for young children in Northern Ireland. The programme is targeted at 2-3 years olds in early years settings. The baseline survey was conducted between October 2008 and January 2009. The purpose of the baseline survey was to gain a 'snapshot' of the developmental stages of a large sample of 2-3 year old children in Northern Ireland. A secondary purpose was to find out the perceptions of children's parents and practitioners in the early years setting, about the developmental needs of 2-3 year olds and their associated actions and interactions with the children.

Probability: Simple random. The children were accessed through the early years centres in which they were enrolled in October 2008. Ninety early year centres took part in the survey in total. Sixty eight were day nurseries and twenty two were Sure Start programmes. In total, six hundred and fifty five children participated; three hundred and forty one boys (52.1%) and three hundred and fourteen girls (47.9%). The mean age was two years and seven months. The sample was not representative of the Northern Irish population of 2-3 year old children as it was confined to children who attended centre-based early years settings and did not include children who were looked after by relatives and child-minders, or by their parents during the day. In total, five hundred and one parents and two hundred and thirty practitioners completed a questionnaire.

Face-to-face interview: PAPI

Self-administered questionnaire: Paper