What Is Autism Screening at 24 Months?

PostedNovember 10, 2025

UpdatedNovember 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Autism screening at 24 months is an essential step in the early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). At two years old, children are expected to reach key developmental milestones, including language development and social interactions. Autism screening helps detect any potential delays or atypical behaviours in these areas, allowing for timely intervention and support.

Screening at this age provides valuable insights into whether a child’s development is following typical patterns or if further evaluation is needed to assess the possibility of autism. Early detection can lead to more effective interventions that improve outcomes in communication, socialisation, and overall development.

The Importance of Autism Screening at 24 Months

Here’s why autism screening at 24 months is crucial:

Two-Year Screening:

It is typically one of the most important checkpoints in a child’s early development. At this stage, children should be showing certain social and communication behaviours, such as using words to communicate, engaging in simple play, and responding to their name.

Early Signs:

Clinicians assess a child’s ability to engage with others, follow simple instructions, and communicate effectively. Missing or delayed early signs, such as not using gestures like pointing, limited verbal communication, or social disengagement, can indicate the need for further diagnostic testing.

Pediatric Evaluation:

It involves comprehensive screening tools, parental input, and direct observations of the child’s behaviour. A trained paediatrician will look for specific signs of autism, considering both the child’s developmental history and their present social, behavioural, and communication skills.

Autism screening at 24 months helps ensure early identification and intervention, which can significantly improve developmental outcomes. For expert advice and personalised consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect to help 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.