Three key areas of function are assessed: self-care, mobility, and social function. There are questions that help assess nine specific sub-categories within those basic three topics. The PEDI relies on parents' (or caregiver's) observations and is sensitive to small changes.

Although it was designed for use with younger children, it can also be used to evaluate older children. If their functional abilities are below those of a seven-year-old child without disabilities, then this test can be used.

The PEDI gives a measure and description of the child's current functional performance. Giving the test as a baseline and repeating it later can provide a means for tracking change across time.

The PEDI has been adapted for use with specific groups. For example, Researchers at Shriners’ Hospitals for Children in Philadelphia are starting to develop a PEDI-MCAT for children with complex spinal impairments.

MCAT stands for Multidimensional Computerized Adaptive Testing. The computerized test is completed by the parent in the physician's waiting room. A handheld tablet computer is provided. New questions pop up based on answers given to previous questions. This tool tailors questions to each specific child's age and functional abilities. You may not answer the same questions for each child.