Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is estimated that 1 in 54 children in the United States are affected by Autism.

Early diagnosis and intervention can help improve outcomes for children with ASD. If you are the parent or caregiver of a child who is exhibiting signs of ASD, you may need to take them for an autism screening. Here is what you can expect at the exam.

What is an Autism Screening?

An autism screening is a set of tests and observations that are used to identify whether or not a child is on the autism spectrum. The screening is usually conducted by a healthcare provider, such as a pediatrician or a child psychologist.

When Should You Consider an Autism Screening?

Parents and caregivers should consider an autism screening if their child is exhibiting any of the following signs:.

Lack of eye contact
No response to name
Delayed or no speech
Repetitive behaviors
Lack of interest in playing with others
Difficulty making friends
Unusual behavior or interests
Unresponsive to verbal cues

What Happens During an Autism Screening?

An autism screening typically involves an interview with the parent or caregiver and direct observation of the child. During the interview, the healthcare provider will ask questions about the child’s development, behavior, and social interaction.

They may also use specific screening tools, such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) or the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).

The healthcare provider will also observe the child’s behavior during the screening. They may ask the child to perform certain tasks, such as playing with toys or interacting with others.

They will look for signs of ASD, such as lack of interest in social interaction or repetitive behaviors.

What Happens After an Autism Screening?

If the screening indicates that your child may have ASD, the healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation by a specialist, such as a child psychologist or developmental pediatrician.

The specialist will conduct a more in-depth assessment to determine if your child does indeed have ASD.

If your child is diagnosed with ASD, early intervention is key to improving outcomes. The healthcare provider and/or specialist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your child’s specific needs.

Conclusion

An autism screening is an important first step in identifying whether or not a child has ASD.

If you are a parent or caregiver and are concerned about your child’s development and behavior, talk to your healthcare provider about scheduling an autism screening. Early intervention can make a big difference in the long-term outcomes for children with ASD.