An assessment of a subject's inhibitory control is provided that can be administered from an early age. Such skills can be used to predict early school adjustment and readiness. The test may also be used for nonreaders and students in special education, and in children down to the age of 5. The assessment tests for the ability to override an automatic response of naming colors and shapes. Each item in the assessment is administered by asking the subject to, for example, say "square" when looking at a circle.