Dr. Robins worked closely with Autism Speaks' science staff and web team to ensure this online automated version of the M-CHAT is a useful tool that parents can use if they are concerned about their toddler's development and whether their child should be evaluated by a healthcare provider or developmental specialist. It is not intended to take the place of screening and diagnosis by a trained professional.
The M-CHAT's primary goal is to detect as many cases of ASD as possible. Therefore, a significant number of children whose results show increased risk for ASD will not be diagnosed with ASD after receiving a more comprehensive evaluation by a specialist. However, a high M-CHAT score suggests that a toddler is at risk for a range of developmental disorders and delays and, therefore, should receive further assessment and, when appropriate, the earliest possible intervention to improve outcomes.
The automated M-CHAT now available on the Autism Speaks website offers free online scoring and recommendations. Parents can review, print and save the results to share with their child's doctor or other developmental specialist.
Autism Speaks urges parents to know the signs of autism, and offers information about treatments for ASD. The Autism Speaks video glossary offers a view of behaviors associated with autism and treatments often used in early intervention. The Autism Speaks 100 Day Kit and the Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Tool Kit were created specifically for newly diagnosed families to make the best possible use of the 100 days following their child's diagnosis of autism or ASD/HFA and the Tools You Can Use webpage offers additional resources which can be downloaded for free. Families in need of personalized supports can reach out to the Autism Response Team which is specially trained to connect families with information, resources and opportunities. The ART can be reached at 888-288-4762 or en Español 888-772-9050 or via email at familyservices@autismspeaks.org.
Provided by Autism Speaks
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