As a parent, you want to know your child is getting the best care possible and that the doctor you’re working with is watching out for signs of a developmental delay or for other challenges so that you can approach them early on. If you’re concerned that your child has autism or you just want to know what procedures most pediatricians use to screen for autism, then take a look below at a few of the things your doctor will be looking for.

Your doctor will start observing and watching for delayed signs or signs of autism from the very first time you come in for a well-child visit. Your doctor will take a look at your child’s reactions to their name, their giggles, and how they look back to you for reassurance or to get your attention if you’re not paying them enough attention at the time. Other ways that your doctor will screen for autism include:

  • Screening the child at 18 and 24-month well visits
  • Use the M-CHAT which is a questionnaire filled out by you, the parents, that contains 23 different questions that are critical in the screening process.
  • Coupled together with watching the child’s reactions, conversations with you and other factors they can catch delays or challenges early on.

Do not be worried if your child may show signs of a positive screening for the Autism Spectrum Disorder range. Sometimes children show signs of being on the spectrum but do not have a spectrum disorder. If you’re concerned with your child’s actions and behaviors at home, it is best to discuss this with your doctor. Whether they scored negative on the screening or not, the screening is not a diagnosis. Be sure to discuss all your concerns with your pediatrician or work with a talented team such as the one at Albert Knapp & Associates. They can assist you in getting your child the help they require to progress at a steady pace.

source: https://healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Autism/Pages/How-Doctors-Screen-for-Autism.aspx