Early screening does not mean diagnosis — it means noticing early signs that may need a closer assessment. The earlier we notice, the better the chance to support the child.
Signs worth paying attention to
In the early years, the following observations are worth discussing with a professional:
- Responding little when called by name.
- Rarely pointing at things or bringing them to show others.
- Limited eye contact or shared smiles.
- First words or short phrases appearing later than in peers.
- Losing skills the child already had, at any age.
What are screening tools?
Screening tools are short questionnaires for parents or professionals, such as the M-CHAT-R/F, which is typically used between 16 and 30 months of age. Many medical bodies recommend autism screening at developmental check-ups at 18 and 24 months.
A screening result is not a diagnosis; it helps us know whether a child needs a more detailed assessment.
What should I do if I am worried?
- Write down your observations with examples from daily life.
- Talk to your paediatrician or a child-development specialist.
- Don’t wait long hoping it will “sort itself out” — asking early does no harm.
- Start supporting your child at home alongside the assessment.
