Should Neonatal Screening Include Developmental Monitoring for Autism? 

With autism diagnoses on the rise and early intervention proving highly effective, many experts are now asking whether neonatal developmental screening should include early checks for neurodevelopmental signs. Traditionally focused on physical health, neonatal screening is beginning to expand its scope to include subtle behavioural and neurological indicators.

The case for enhancing neonatal developmental screening lies in the critical early months of life, when the brain is rapidly developing and most responsive to support. Introducing tools that assess communication, social responsiveness, and sensory reactions in high-risk infants could lay the groundwork for early detection of autism and related conditions. Current follow-up protocols in neonatal units often focus on motor milestones or feeding challenges. While these are important, they may miss early signs of autism, especially in babies born prematurely or with birth complications. Expanding screening to include targeted developmental assessments would allow for earlier referrals and tailored interventions that align with each child’s unique trajectory.

Why This Expansion Is Gaining Support

The shift toward proactive care is redefining what neonatal follow-up can achieve. Here’s why:

Screening expansion could close critical gaps

By including neurodevelopmental markers in routine checks, neonatal developmental screening could identify at-risk infants before delays become entrenched.

Integrating autism awareness from day one

Embedding developmental monitoring into early care ensures families receive timely guidance and don’t face long waits for assessment or support.

Improving neonatal developmental screening is a step toward more responsive, inclusive early care. Visit providers like Autism Detect to learn how early assessments can shape lifelong outcomes for children at risk.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Birth Complications and Low Birth Weight.

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.