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Spotted early signs for Autism? Here are some online screening tools

Dr Ajay Sharma

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Key Takeaways:

We are currently working on the key takeaways for this article. They will be available soon.

 

Have you identified red flags for Autism?
Are you concerned about your child’s developmental delays?
Is he/she not communicating or not making eye contact?

If you find yourself nodding your head to all these questions then you should definitely consider taking the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) or the Quantitative Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (Q-CHAT)

Both M-CHAT and Q-CHAT are  free Autism screening tests available online

M-CHAT is widely used for developmental screening of children between ages 16-30months. The test can be accessed here 

NOTE: The M-Chat has been translated into a number of different languages. Please take your pick according to your requirement – http://mchatscreen.com/mchat-rf/translations/

Q-CHAT is widely used for developmental screening of children between ages 18-24months. The test can be accessed here

Who should take these tests?

These tests were designed to help identify children with risk for Autism as early as possible. This is beneficial as early detection will help address some of the developmental delays, and in some cases the delays can be efficiently managed. These assessment tools help identify potential risks for Autism in a child. Scoring of these tests don’t require any formal training, and hence can be self-administered by parents without the involvement of a therapist

Please note that this is by no means a diagnostic tool for Autism. It merely helps identify children who are at a higher risk for Autism. It is thus completely harmless for every parent to take these online tests to help spot early signs of Autism.

What do you do after you have taken these tests?

If you have taken these tests because of specific concerns you may have had with regard to your child’s development, then irrespective of the results of the test please carry your scores to a Developmental Pediatrician/Psychologist/Pediatrician near you to discuss the scores and get a complete developmental assessment for your child.

Two other tests, the Autism Spectrum quotient-10 (AQ-10) for the child or adoloscent have been designed for looking for signs of Autism in older children (ages 4-15years). These tests can be accessed here.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this guide is for information purposes only. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for safe management.

Once you spot early signs of Autism the key to effective management is early intervention. Learn about the importance of early intervention and act promptly.

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