Identification

Identifying and diagnosing autism spectrum disorders can be difficult, as there is no medical test that is conclusive. A review of a child’s developmental history, behavioral history, and a diagnostic screening must be considered to identify the possibility of autism spectrum disorder. Identification can occur as early as 18 months (about 1 and a half years) old, but autism often is not identified until a child reaches the age of three. Earlier identification ensures that interventions and supports are available for a child to reach their fullest potential.

Some early signs of autism include:

• Regression (loss of) of previously achieved language milestones, including babbling;
• Lack of pretend play, or even imitative play such as babbling on a toy telephone;
• Lack of pointing or looking toward where another points;
• Lack of response to one’s name, or decreasing response to name; and
• Lack of pointing to indicate needs and lack of response to pointing behaviors of others

(Association for Science in Autism Treatment, n.d.)

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers a free Milestone Tracker. The tracker offers typical development and other support links.

Instruments commonly used by diagnosticians include: The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), The Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS), or a combination of the Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised)) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).