Detecting Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in young children is essential. With close to 1 in 44 children diagnosed with ASD, early detection is critical for successful early intervention supports. But how do we detect ASD in children at a young age? The key is being aware of the early signs and then screening using a validated tool.
What Is ASD?
Before we dive into the methods used to detect ASD, let’s take a moment to understand what autism spectrum disorder is. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication and social interaction skills. It often presents itself in infancy or early childhood but can go undiagnosed until later in life when more pronounced symptoms begin to manifest. Common behaviours associated with ASD include difficulty with communication, repetitive behaviours, and difficulty understanding social cues.
How Can We Improve Early Autism Detection?
Fortunately, there are several tools available that professionals such as GPs, child health nurses, and daycare educators can use to identify potential signs of ASD in young children. One popular tool is called the M-CHAT which stands for the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers. This tool has been used extensively by healthcare providers around the world to identify potentially autistic behaviour patterns in young children aged 16-30 months old.
Additionally, a recent study from Australia validated a new tool called the Social Attention and Communication Surveillance tool (SCAS-R), in 13,511 children, finding it was an extremely effective way to screen children aged 12-60 months. It was shown to have an excellent positive predictive value (82.6%) and negative predictive value (98.7%), suggesting it is an extremely useful tool. It does involve training though and is not a simple questionnaire.
Working with children often presents a unique set of diagnostic challenges. Professionals such as GPs, nurses and early educators are often looking for ways to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) sooner. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers – Revised (M-CHAT), an online screening questionnaire, is a great place to start; however, if you work with lots of young children and want extra training the Social Communication Assessment Scale -Revised (SCAS-R) is worth considering.
Training on the SCAS-R here (I'm not affiliated in any way): https://www.latrobe.edu.au/otarc/research/autism-detection-diagnosis/social-attention-communication
The MCHAT-R can be found here: https://www.autismspeaks.org/screen-your-child
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