Autism Spectrum Disorder

These screening tools may be used by healthcare and other qualified professionals to identify children who may benefit from further autism-specific evaluation. Screening tools do not diagnose autism. A positive screen or ongoing developmental concern should be followed by a comprehensive evaluation by appropriately trained professionals.

Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F)
A two-stage parent-report screening tool used to identify toddlers who may need further evaluation for autism or developmental concerns.
Ages: 16–30 months
Time: approximately 5 minutes, with follow-up questions when indicated
Completed by: Parent/caregiver; follow-up interview is completed with a clinician or trained staff member
Languages: English, Spanish, and many additional translations are available through the official M-CHAT website.

Survey of Well-Being of Young Children (SWYC)
A free, comprehensive developmental screening tool that includes developmental milestones, behavioral and emotional functioning, family risk factors, and an autism-specific screening component at selected ages.
Ages: Birth–5 years
Time: approximately 15 minutes or less
Completed by: Parent/caregiver; scored and reviewed by healthcare or other trained staff
Languages: English, Spanish, and multiple additional translations are available.

Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ)
A caregiver-completed screening questionnaire that assesses communication, social interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors associated with autism and helps identify individuals who may benefit from a more comprehensive evaluation.
Ages: Generally 4 years and older, with a developmental/mental age of at least 2 years
Time: approximately 10 minutes
Completed by: Parent/caregiver; interpretation should be completed by an appropriately qualified professional
Note: The SCQ is a proprietary instrument and requires purchase through the publisher.

Clinical Guidance
AACAP Clinical Practice Guidelines & Practice Parameters – Autism
Clinical guidance for healthcare professionals on the assessment and treatment of autism spectrum disorder and related developmental concerns.

North Dakota Autism Center
North Dakota-based services, family support, caregiver training, school support, community programs, and resources for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) – Autism Resource Center
Information for families and professionals about autism, evaluation, treatment, co-occurring mental health concerns, school services, and medications.

Autism Speaks
Broad family and professional resources on autism, including signs, diagnosis, treatment and supports, education, safety, mental health, transition to adulthood, and service navigation.

Autism Speaks Resource Directory
A searchable directory of autism services and supports organized by age, need, and audience.

CDC – Learn the Signs. Act Early.
Developmental milestone information and practical tools to help families and professionals recognize possible developmental concerns and know when to seek further evaluation.

CDC – Autism Spectrum Disorder
Current information about autism, signs and characteristics, screening and diagnosis, treatment and services, and data.

NIMH – Autism Spectrum Disorder
A clear overview of autism characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and supports, and current research.

AACAP – Autism Spectrum Disorder Resource Center
Family- and professional-friendly information about autism, evaluation, treatment, co-occurring mental health concerns, and supporting children and adolescents.

Autism Navigator
Video-based resources that help families and professionals recognize early signs of autism and understand social communication development.

Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules (AFIRM)
Free learning modules and practical resources on evidence-based practices and supports for autistic children and youth.