What Is Autism Screening in Toddlers?

PostedNovember 10, 2025

UpdatedNovember 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Autism screening in toddlers is an essential tool for identifying early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during crucial developmental years. As toddlers develop rapidly, it is important to assess whether they are meeting typical milestones or showing signs of autism. Autism screening helps detect early toddler signs such as social, communication, or behavioural delays, allowing for early intervention.

Why Autism Screening in Toddlers Is Important

Here’s why autism screening in toddlers is important for early detection:

Age-Specific Screening:

It focuses on whether toddlers are reaching expected milestones, such as responding to their name, engaging in simple interactions, and showing interest in others. Delays or atypical behaviours at this stage can suggest the need for further evaluation.

Toddler Signs:

Common toddler signs include limited eye contact, difficulty engaging in play, and repetitive behaviours like hand-flapping or lining up objects. Identifying these early signs helps professionals intervene promptly to support the child’s development.

Early Traits:

It can include language delays, social withdrawal, and a preference for routine. Autism screening helps parents and clinicians assess these traits, enabling early diagnosis and appropriate support.

Autism screening in toddlers is vital for early identification, ensuring that children receive timely intervention for the best developmental outcomes. For expert advice and personalised consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect to guide you through the screening and diagnostic process.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Autism Screening and Assessment Tools.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.