What Screenings Help Identify Autism in Speech‑Delayed Children?

PostedDecember 9, 2025

UpdatedDecember 9, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

When a child shows signs of speech delay, screening tools are a key step toward identifying whether autism may be involved. Autism and speech delay screening helps flag early signs that further evaluation is needed. The sooner this happens; the sooner children can access the support they need.

Screening tools don’t diagnose autism, but they can indicate early signs and guide healthcare professionals in making referrals. They are especially valuable when speech isn’t developing as expected, or when communication delays occur alongside other concerns like social interaction or limited gestures.

Key Screening Tools and Practices

Here are some of the most used methods for autism and speech delay screening:

M‑CHAT / M‑CHAT‑R / M‑CHAT‑R/F

The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers is a parent‑completed questionnaire for children aged roughly 16–30 months. It asks about behaviours like name response, pointing, and babbling. If a child scores in a higher risk zone, a follow‑up or further assessment is recommended.

Developmental screening in paediatric check‑ups

Doctors routinely check whether a child meets speech and communication age milestones. If delays are noticed, additional tools and diagnostic interviews may be used.

Diagnostic tools used by specialists

Once screening raises concern, more detailed instruments (such as diagnostic interviews focusing on social and communication behaviour) are used. These tools help clarify whether delays are part of autism or another developmental or language disorder.

If you believe your child’s speech delay could be linked to autism, starting with autism and speech delay screening is wise. Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations and professional guidance tailored to your child’s situation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Delayed Speech or Language Development.

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.