Screening and Assessments
Screening Tools
M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers – Revised with Follow-Up)
- Age: 16–30 months
- Parent-completed questionnaire
- Simple, low-cost, and widely used
- Suitable for primary care and baby wellness clinics
Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ)
- Broad developmental screening tool
- Identifies general developmental delays, including social and communication concerns
Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and Young Children (STAT)
An interactive screening tool comprising of twelve activities that assess play, communication, and imitation.
Parents’ Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS)
A general developmental parent interview designed to identify delays in motor, language, self-help, and more.
CSBS (Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales – Infant Toddler Checklist)
- Focuses on early communication and social behaviours
- Useful in younger children with speech delays
Important note:
A failed screen should prompt referral, not delay or reassurance alone.
Practical Guidance
- Screening tools support but do not replace clinical judgement
- Early identification is sufficient to initiate referral and intervention
- A formal diagnosis should not delay support
- Clear documentation improves continuity of care across services
Diagnostic Tools (Specialist or Secondary Care)
Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment, often supported by structured tools.
Common diagnostic tools include:
DSM-5 Criteria
The DSM-5 recognizes two broad diagnostic criteria for autism:
- Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction
- Restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interest, or activities.
These symptoms often appear early in life and can disrupt the child’s social, emotional, and cognitive development.
ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)
- Structured observational assessment
- Requires specialized training
ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised)
- Detailed caregiver interview
- Used by trained specialists
- Time-intensive
Supporting Assessments
Doctors should also consider:
- Hearing and vision assessments
- Cognitive or developmental testing (where available)
- Speech and language evaluation
- Medical investigations when clinically indicated (e.g. seizures)
