What age range is appropriate for conducting an autism-specific screening?

Conducting an autism-specific screening during both 18 months and 24-30 months is considered appropriate because this age range allows for the identification of potential developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders.

At 18 months, early warning signs of autism can present, such as limited social engagement, reduced eye contact, and a lack of response to name calling. Early identification and intervention during this stage can significantly improve outcomes for children with autism.

Additionally, screening at 24-30 months is critical since more definitive behavioral patterns associated with autism often become more apparent during this period. The prevalence of autism is higher, and many children will exhibit clearer signs of the disorder by this age, making it key for earlier diagnosis and intervention.

Both screenings at these timeframes collectively enhance the chances of early detection and help in planning appropriate interventions, improving developmental trajectories for affected children.