Why is establishing rapport with the child important during the MoCA Early Childhood assessment?

Establishing rapport with the child is crucial during the MoCA Early Childhood assessment because it significantly enhances the child's willingness to engage. When a child feels comfortable and at ease with the assessor, they are more likely to participate actively in the assessment tasks. This emotional connection encourages openness and a positive attitude, allowing the child to demonstrate their true abilities and understanding without the stress or anxiety that may come from a more formal or intimidating environment.

By fostering a trusting relationship, the assessor can create a safe space where the child feels valued and understood, leading to more accurate and informative results. Engagement is key in early childhood assessments, as it directly impacts the quality of the interaction and the reliability of the data collected.