A diagnostic ASSESSMENT for autism is usually completed by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals with expertise in autism. The Autism Diagnostic Scale Revised (ADOS-R) is currently considered one of the best diagnostic tools for autism. The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) is also commonly used by professionals. A diagnostic assessment requires both direct observation and interviews of individuals who know the CHILD.

There are several good screening tools that can be used for early identification. These may include but aren’t limited to:

• The Modified Checklist of Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT),
• The Autism Screening Questionnaire (ASQ), and
• The Screening Tool for Autism in Two-Year-Olds (STAT).

These tools are used to SCREEN young children for early behavioral deficits that may INDICATE autism. Markers include eye contact, orienting to one’s name, joint attention behaviors, pretend play, imitation, nonverbal communication and language development.

A diagnostic assessment for autism is usually completed by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals with expertise in autism. The Autism Diagnostic Scale Revised (ADOS-R) is currently considered one of the best diagnostic tools for autism. The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) is also commonly used by professionals. A diagnostic assessment requires both direct observation and interviews of individuals who know the child.

There are several good screening tools that can be used for early identification. These may include but aren’t limited to:

These tools are used to screen young children for early behavioral deficits that may indicate autism. Markers include eye contact, orienting to one’s name, joint attention behaviors, pretend play, imitation, nonverbal communication and language development.