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When to test for autism?
As a parent, it’s natural to pay close attention to every smile, sound, and step your child takes. But what happens when something doesn’t feel quite right? Maybe your toddler doesn’t respond to their name, or they avoid eye contact, or they don’t seem interested in other children. These observations can raise a complex and deeply personal question: When to test for autism?
The answer is not always simple, but the good news is that you’re not alone—and there are clear guidelines that can help. In recent years, leading health authorities like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have updated their recommendations, calling for earlier and more frequent autism screenings during a child’s development. These changes reflect a growing understanding that early autism screening can significantly improve outcomes, especially when paired with timely, evidence-based interventions like ABA therapy.
In this blog by ABA Centers of Florida, we’ll explore what these new guidelines mean for you and your family—what signs to look out for, when to test for autism, and what to expect from the diagnostic and treatment journey. If you’re wondering whether your child might benefit from an autism screening or if you want to understand what to expect, read on.
Updated Recommendations: Early Autism Screening Is Essential
Both the AAP and CDC now recommend that all children undergo routine autism screenings at 18 and 24 months of age, typically during well-child visits with a pediatrician. These screenings are part of a broader process called developmental surveillance, which involves observing a child’s growth, behavior, and developmental milestones over time.
According to the CDC, caregivers should take their kids to formal developmental screenings at 9, 18, and 30 months, with specific autism screenings included at 18 and 24 months. Additional evaluations may be needed if a child is considered high-risk (for example, if they have a sibling with autism) or if any signs or concerns emerge outside the regular screening windows.
These guidelines are not just checkboxes—data back them. The CDC’s April 2025 MMWR report revealed a continued rise in autism prevalence in the U.S., now affecting 1 in 31 children under age 8. The report also showed that autism is being identified earlier than in previous years, especially among toddlers. This progress underscores the urgent need for proactive screening and early action.
Another valuable and helpful resource for parents is the CDC’s “Learn the Signs. Act Early” initiative.
Recognizing Autism in Toddlers: What to Look for at 12, 18, and 24 Months
As a parent, you are often the first person to notice subtle differences in your child’s development. While every child is unique and develops at their own pace, certain red flags may signal autism in toddlers and warrant a closer look:
At 12 Months:
- Limited or no babbling
- Little or no response to their name
- Rarely pointing, waving, or reaching
- Avoids eye contact
- Few warm, joyful expressions
At 18 Months:
- Don’t use single words
- Shows no interest in pretend play
- Don’t point to showing interest
- Loss of speech or social skills
At 24 Months:
- Don’t use two-word meaningful phrases
- Avoids imaginative play
- Displays repetitive behaviors like flapping or rocking
- Has trouble adapting to changes in routine
- Unusual reactions to lights, sounds, or textures
These signs can provide essential context for early detection.
If your child shows one or more of these behaviors, it’s a good idea to talk to your pediatrician. Trust your instincts—no concern is too small when it comes to your child’s development.
How and When to Test for Autism?
You don’t need to wait for a scheduled screening to raise concerns. If you’re worried about your child’s behavior or communication, talk to your pediatrician right away. They can perform an initial screening or refer you to a specialist for a more in-depth evaluation.
An autism evaluation typically involves:
- A parent interview or questionnaire
- Observation of the child’s behavior
- Standardized tests or tools, such as the M-CHAT-R/F, ADOS-2, or Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales
In Florida, early assessment services, such as ABA Centers of Florida, provide optimized, evidence-based diagnostic pathways that make it easier for families to access timely assessments without waiting lists.
Telehealth is also becoming a growing option for families in underserved or rural areas. New research, such as the PubMed study on virtual autism diagnosis, explores how culturally diverse families can access autism assessments from home—offering flexibility and faster results.
What to Expect from the ABA Assessment Process
If your child is diagnosed with autism, one of the most commonly recommended therapies is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Before therapy begins, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will conduct a comprehensive ABA assessment to understand your child’s unique strengths, challenges, and needs.
The assessment typically covers:
- Communication skills
- Social interaction
- Daily living abilities
- Sensory sensitivities
- Challenging behaviors
- Cognitive and learning readiness
Parental input is essential during this process. Assessments often use diverse tools, helping clinicians create a personalized treatment plan for your child.
The result is not a one-size-fits-all solution but an individualized roadmap designed to help your child thrive at home, in school, and social settings.
Early Intervention and ABA Therapy: Giving Children the Best Start
Early intervention has the potential to transform the lives of children with autism in remarkable ways. Science has proven that children who begin ABA therapy in the toddler and preschool years make greater gains in communication, learning, and social behavior than those who start later.
ABA therapy is a methodology based on the science of learning and behavior. It helps children build practical skills—like following instructions, sharing toys, using words, or managing big emotions—ABA therapists break tasks down into small steps and use positive reinforcement to teach healthy behaviors. More importantly, it celebrates each child’s progress on their timeline with compassion and care.
Whether your child has received a diagnosis or you’re still navigating the evaluation process, ABA Centers of Florida is here to support you every step of the way. We offer diagnostic evaluations, early intervention programs, in-home and in-school ABA therapy, and ongoing support for families.
So, When to Test for Autism?
So, when to test for autism? The answer is as early as possible. Screenings at 18 and 24 months, paired with close observation and open conversations with your pediatrician, can help catch early signs of autism and connect your child with the support they need.
If you notice any developmental red flags, trust your gut and reach out. The earlier you act, the more doors you open for your child’s future.
At ABA Centers of Florida, we’re committed to helping children with autism grow, learn, and succeed—starting with compassionate, personalized care from day one.
Contact ABA Centers of Florida
Contact us and learn more about:
- Autism diagnostic evaluations
- Early intervention services
- In-home and school-based ABA therapy
Call us today at (772) 773-1975. Together, we can build a brighter path forward.
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