As a parent, nobody know your child better than you do. Often times, you are the first to recognize a characteristic or skill deficit. At Alliance Autism Center, our specialists are dedicated to working with families to support you. Extensive research have identified common characteristics in young children. This checklist, referred as the M-CHAT, is meant to help you think about daily moments during routines, and how your child interacts with the world around them.
The M-CHAT stands for the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers. It is a screening tool best intended for toddlers between 18-24 months of age. Take this 20-item questionnaire and consider how these questions relate to your child. The results reflect a risk for autism. Your results here do not serve as a diagnosis, but you can take this score to your healthcare professional. Answering these questions should only take a few minutes to complete and the results are immediate. If you mostly agree with the question, select yes. If you mostly disagree with the question, select no.
How do I read my score? What does it mean?
Total score of 0-2 = Low RISK: If your child is younger than 24 months, answer the questions again after their second birthday. If you still have concerns, talk with your doctor.
Total score of 3-7 = MEDIUM RISK: A secondary screening is required called the Follow-Up. Talk to your pediatrician about your results and ask them for this short interview.
Total score of 8-20 = HIGH RISK: The child should be referred promptly for a diagnostic evaluation and eligibility evaluation for EIDBI services. Contact your healthcare provider immediately to request an evaluation. Multiple types of professionals can diagnose ASD, but you usually need a referral from your primary care physician first. Here at Alliance Autism, we are here to support you.
