Note: there is recent evidence that the M-CHAT may not be as effective in screening females and minority, urban and low-income children.

Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT), is a popular 20-question test designed for toddlers between 16 and 30 months old.

Some of the more commonly used autism screening tools are: These can range from simple observations to formal assessments. Physicians use an array of formal and informal autism screening tools. If you suspect your child may have autism, please ask your child’s pediatrician to administer screening or request a referral to a qualified specialist. Although many doctors follow the AAP and NCBDD guidelines, parents should also be proactive. These screenings identify areas requiring further assessment and do not replace a formal diagnosis. Screenings administered during well-child checkups are only designed to indicate whether a child may be showing some early signs of autism. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that autism screenings should be part of standard 18 and 24-month well-child checkups, whereas the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDD) recommends that all children be screened at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months.

Showing little interest in objects or people.

Avoiding many, if not most, forms of physical contact.

Getting upset over minor changes in routine.

Delays in communicating with others including speech and gestures.

The following are early signs of autism, however, they do not necessarily need to be present.

The purpose of an autism screening is to identify common early signs of autism. The doctor may observe the child or ask you questions about his or her behaviors at home and while interacting with other children on the playground. What Is Autism Screening?Īutism screening is usually administered by a pediatrician during a routine well-child checkup. Research has shown that intervening as early as possible is associated with more positive outcomes than treatment later in life or not at all. Those children who eventually receive an autism diagnosis are often prescribed speech and behavior therapy, medical guidance, and other supports that can improve their quality of life and their prognosis. As a result, many young children exhibiting early signs of autism are receiving referrals for appropriate assessment. Over the past decade, many pediatricians have begun screening for autism during well-child checkups.

Childhood autism spectrum test scoring