Does my child have AUTISM.com ?
Is your child at risk for Autism? (CHAT Test)
This is simply a summary of an early way to detect “potential risk” for Autism.
Condensed - (CHAT-23) “The Checklist for Autism in Toddlers” –Pediatrics Aug ‘04
These seven questions for parents of children past 18 months of age will help determine risk. The more “no” answers - the higher the risk, but any 2 “NO” answers should warrant further investigation by a Developmental Pediatrician or Child Psychologist or Neurologist…at minimum find a mom with an Autistic child to talk to!
Remember, this is what you WANT your child to do…Does your child:
1. ) imitate you (try to do what you do – sweep, cook, etc.)
2.) engage in pretend play (talk on phone, feed/push dolls, etc.)
3.) use index finger to point to desired objects or indicate interest
4.) look at you for your reaction to something unfamiliar
5.) bring objects to show you (share interest)
6.) look at you in the eye (eye contact)
7.) take an interest in/play with other children
This picture says it all!
Other observations by parents as potential “red flags” is when a child DOES…
Not – wave “hi “or “bye” on request
Not – have much receptive language (won’t come here, sit down, go get…)
Not – respond to name (seems almost deaf)
Not – do well with change/deviations in routines (throws uncontrollable fits)
As you can tell it is often what is NOT present that is the warning sign. But some of the things to watch for are when a child…lines things up, stacks things perfectly, spins things, flaps hands & looks at things sideways. However, these things are often not present in the early stages (the first 2 years). Letter & CHAT (Appendix 2) Checklist you can take to a parent or teacher of a child you have concerns about is available in the Appendix section.
Below is a narrative that will help...but the best links are:
