Autism Screening Tool for Toddlers

Autism Screening Tool for Toddlers

Use this M-Chat quick screening tool to help identify early signs of autism in toddlers.

quick screening tool to help identify early signs of autism in toddlers
Start the Screening

How this screener helps

This autism screening tool helps parents and caregivers better understand whether a child may need follow-up evaluation. It is not a diagnosis, but it can help you decide whether to speak with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist.

  • Made for toddlers ages 16 to 30 months
  • Takes only a few minutes to complete
  • Provides guidance on next steps

Who should use this screening tool?

This tool is for parents and caregivers of toddlers between 16 and 30 months old who want to better understand early developmental and social communication behaviors.

  • Parents with developmental concerns
  • Families looking for an early screening step
  • Caregivers preparing to speak with a provider
At compleatKiDZ, we provide in-home and in-community autism therapy and pediatric therapy services across North Carolina for children ages 20 months through 18 years.

What to expect before you begin

The screening includes 20 simple yes-or-no questions about your child’s behavior and responses in everyday situations. Most families complete it in just a few minutes.

  1. Answer each question based on your child’s usual behavior
  2. Complete all 20 questions
  3. Review the results and next-step guidance

Start the Screener

When you are ready, begin below. Answer each question based on what your child typically does most of the time.

M-CHAT-R Autism Screening

If you point at something across the room, does your child look at it? For example, if you point at a toy or an animal, does your child look at the toy or animal?


© Diana Robins, Deborah Fein & Marianne Barton

Please answer questions to reflect your child’s usual behaviors. If the behavior is rare (e.g., you’ve seen it only once or twice), answer as if the child has not acquired the behavior.

What your results mean

This screening helps identify whether a child may benefit from further evaluation. It does not diagnose autism. If the results suggest follow-up, the next step is to talk with your child’s pediatrician or a qualified developmental professional.

Low Likelihood

Low concern: Continue monitoring development and bring up any concerns at routine visits

Moderate Likelihood

Needs follow-up: Speak with your provider about next steps

High Likelihood

Ongoing concerns: Seek evaluation even if you are unsure

What to do after the screening

If you have questions about your child’s development, early action matters. After completing the screening, you may want to:

  • Share the results with your pediatrician
  • Ask about a developmental evaluation
  • Learn more about autism testing and therapy options
  • Contact compleatKiDZ for support

Learn more about

FAQs

What age is this autism screening tool for?
This screening tool is intended for toddlers ages 16 to 30 months.

Does this tool diagnose autism?
No. This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. It helps identify whether a child may need further evaluation.

How long does the screening take?
Most families can complete the 20 questions in just a few minutes.

What should I do if the results show concern?
You should speak with your child’s pediatrician or a developmental specialist about follow-up evaluation.

Can I still seek help if the results do not show concern?
Yes. If you have ongoing concerns about your child’s development, it is always a good idea to talk with a healthcare provider.

Need help understanding the next step?

Our team can help guide families toward the right developmental support services.