Community Data Group

Mothercraft's Community Data Group has two clear goals. The first is to work with community agencies to strengthen their capacity for data management and research. We accomplish this through the design and development of innovative data tools. The second goal is to assist community agencies in the use of data sets for the purposes of research and evaluation.

The Group provides leadership and training in the support of data collection in Ontario Early Years Centres, through the Early Years Services Information System (EYSIS) and in the children and youth serving agencies through the Children and Youth Services Information System (CYSIS). The Group also coordinates the use of the Early Development Instrument (EDI) to collect school readiness data on Toronto's children, and interprets and presents the data to the community. In addition the Group has developed the Toronto Mapping and Planning Tool (TMPTool) and has trained hundreds of community agency personnel in its application.

The Group is known for its expertise in community development, training, research methodology, program evaluation, and data management in a manner that supports community service needs. In addition the Group seeks out opportunities to collaborate with community agencies to expand our collective knowledge of child development in the early years and children's services.