What is the Peabody Test?

One of the most common tests used by both physical and occupational therapists is the Peabody. Although therapists typically refer to this assessment as the Peabody, the test is officially titled the Peabody Developmental Motor Scale-Second Edition (PDMS-2).

This test is a great tool for identifying delays or deficits in a child’s motor development and makes monitoring progress and reassessment easy and reliable. The Peabody is a great resource for evaluating motor ability and development in children with autism, cerebral palsy, premature births, and many other diagnoses.

There is no course to be taken to be able to administer this test, but this test is typically used by physiotherapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, and doctors. Although no certification is required, it is necessary to understand child development. The test has many different composites and subtests and can accurately measure a wide range of motor abilities.

The Peabody measures both fine and gross motor development. We’ve talked a bit about what fine and gross motor development is in the past, if you’re interested check out this link here to learn more about what motor skills are and why they are important.

This test measures gross motor functions such as reflexes, stationary performances, locomotion, and object manipulation. Each of these categories has its subcategories. The Peabody also measures fine motor function in areas of grasping and visual-motor integration.

This test is appropriate for children up to the age of 5.

The Peabody “combines evaluation with the planned intervention,” making it different from other tests. In the Motor Activities Book, the Peabody provides the user with ideas on how to improve motor skills that the child may be struggling with.¹

The test itself combines a series of tasks. For example, throwing a ball or jumping over a string. A therapist will ask the child to complete a series of everyday activities to identify what your child may be struggling with.

• Source

  1. Physiopedia contributors, "Peabody Developmental Motor Scale (PDMS-2)," Physiopedia, 28 February 2022,https://www.physio-pedia.com/index.php?title=Peabody_Developmental_Motor_Scale_(PDMS-2)&oldid=295873.