Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL)

What is the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL)?

The Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) is used to measure gross motor, visual reception, fine motor, expressive language, and receptive language skills in children from birth to 5 years old. 

What is the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) Used For?

The Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) is an evaluation that helps to assess early intellectual development and school readiness. It measures overall cognitive ability and motor development by identifying and targeting a child’s strengths and weaknesses in a quick and reliable manner. The MSEL is an important psychological assessment in the diagnostic process of young children suspected of having an autism spectrum disorder. 

How is the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) Administered?

The evaluation is based on a concept of intelligence that focuses on neurodevelopmental, intrasensory, and intersensory learning. The child being evaluated completes a set of interactive motor, visual, and language tasks. The tasks can be completed with the help of a parent. Information can also be collected through parent interviews.

Scales Assessed:

  1. Gross Motor
  2. Visual Reception
  3. Fine Motor
  4. Receptive Language
  5. Expressive Language

What are Gross Motor Skills?

Gross motor skills are physical skills that allow the body to make large movements. These skills can be used to control larger muscles of the body to move the arms, legs, and torso in a functional and coordinated manner.

What is Visual Reception?

Visual reception is the ability to comprehend the meaning of symbols, words, and pictures, as well as spatial recognition of concrete objects.

What are Fine Motor Skills?

Fine motor skills are physical skills that allow the body to make small movements. These skills can be used to control smaller muscles of the body to move the hands and fingers in a precise and synchronized manner.

What is Receptive Language?

Receptive language is the ability to understand and process the meaning of language. It involves gaining information through visual, auditory, and written information. Receptive language is important because it allows a child to communicate successfully.

What is Expressive Language?

Expressive language is the ability to communicate thoughts by using meaningful words, sentences, and gestures. It involves using language to convey meaning and messages to others. Expressive language is important because it allows a child to form sentences, identify objects in the environment, describe actions and events, use grammar correctly, tell stories, and  answer questions.