There are currently no publicly available screening instruments for use with children under the age of 18 months.
There has been considerable recent research into early markers or “red flags” that indicate the need for serious and immediate follow-up with a pediatrician or team of healthcare professionals experienced with autism spectrum disorders in infants and toddlers.
Review this autism symptoms checklist and see if your child exhibits two or more markers. If he or she does, don’t panic. Set up an appointment with your pediatrician and express your concerns.
Autism Markers by Age
6-12 Months
- Infrequent eye contact
- Failure to orient to name
- Does not smile in response to smiles from others
- Social and emotional passivity
- Fixation on objects
By 12 Months
- Poor or no eye contact
- Failure to orient to name
- Poor imitation
- No babbling by 12 months
- No gesturing by 12 months
By 16 Months
- No single words by 16 months
- No pointing to objects or events of interest in an effort to share
By 24 Months
- No spontaneous two-word phrases
- Loss of any language or social skills at any age
Online Autism Screening Tools
There are some screening tools and questionnaires available, including:
- Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT)
- Various tests on Autism Research Institute website (
https://www.autismresearchcentre.com/tests/)
Use these tools when you have any concerns about your child, but remember that only a qualified medical professional can properly diagnose your child.
If some of these behaviors are present, an immediate follow-up appointment should be made with the child’s pediatrician.
Additionally, you should contact the special services department in the child’s school district and inquire about how to make an appointment with their Early Intervention services coordinator. Request an immediate evaluation, which will be at school district expense.