A system for evaluating and monitoring child development projects, with possible computerization capabilities, was developed for the State of Pennsylvania in connection with 26 child development projects funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission. The Ecological Monitoring Information System (EMIS), provides a series of ecological measurement tools and a baseline of data to conduct naturalistic child development studies in a highly controlled condition. Based on five years of research on the ecology of child development, it is concerned with group theory and with interactions of children in day care. Data compiled and standardized covered: (1) evaluation aspects, (2) medical components, (3) staff, parent and community background, (4) outreach, (5) public relations, (6) program administration and (7) social service components. Issues addressed include: the development of an effective measurement tool for Piaget's theory of cognitive development; adult-child interactions; cost analysis; peer group development; information and referral programs. The EMIS might be used on a regional, state or national level to collect data in making decisions about child care. The system has the capability of adoption to group day care, family day care, information and referral programs and others. Included in the document are flow sheets, sample letters, tables, graphs, and data sheets. (BF)