What ASD Screening Is Recommended by the CDC?

PostedNovember 10, 2025

UpdatedNovember 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

CDC recommended autism screening plays a key role in identifying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, particularly during the critical early years. The CDC’s guidelines are designed to ensure that children receive the necessary evaluations to detect autism early, which can lead to better outcomes through early intervention.

Key Aspects of CDC Recommended Autism Screening

Here’s what you need to know about the CDC recommended autism screening:

Routine Screening:

The CDC advises that all children should be screened for autism at the 18-month and 24-month check-ups, as part of pediatric protocol. This includes using standardised screening tools like the M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) to assess potential developmental delays and social communication difficulties.

Screening for High-Risk Children:

Children who are at higher risk, such as those with a family history of autism, should receive earlier and more frequent screenings, according to the CDC’s guidelines.

Early Detection and Public Health Advice:

The CDC’s advice stresses the importance of early detection, as identifying autism at an early age allows for timely early intervention. This intervention can significantly help with speech, motor skills, and socialisation, improving long-term outcomes for children with autism.

Why CDC Recommended Autism Screening Matters

CDC-recommended autism screening ensures consistent, evidence-based early identification practices:

Standardised Process:

It ensures that all children are screened with the same reliable protocols, promoting consistency and fairness across healthcare settings.

Accurate Diagnosis:

Adhering to the CDC’s guidelines helps healthcare providers identify autism more accurately, which leads to quicker referrals for further diagnosis and intervention.

Timely Support:

Early identification through pediatric protocol can provide children with essential support, helping them develop the skills they need to thrive socially and academically.

For further guidance on CDC recommended autism screening and how to proceed if you have concerns, visit providers like Autism Detect for professional support and advice on your child’s development.

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.