Autism is something that we are continually learning more about, and as our knowledge of the condition grows, so do the diagnostic methods and treatments. There are even assessments that parents can perform at home, before they seek additional intervention from a team of professionals. One such diagnostic tool is the M-CHAT (or M-CHAT-RTM), which stands for Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised.
If you believe your child is exhibiting symptoms of autism, this questionnaire can be easily completed online. The M-CHAT is typically used for toddlers between 16 and 30 months old. The results of the questions in the M-CHAT will assess the risk that the child will develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The assessment also reveals the likelihood of developing autism: high, medium, or low. While this might seem early, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that all parents have their children assessed for autism between 18 and 24 months.
Neuropsychologists and a clinical psychologist developed the M-CHAT questionnaire, and there is scientific evidence to support its success. Therefore, it is widely used by parents who believe their children are at risk for developing autism. If the M-CHAT reveals a risk for autism, parents will be able to share these results with their pediatrician or professionals who are involved in the diagnostic process. The M-CHAT will be able to show the areas of development that are delayed and help to determine, with applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy), what would be an effective next step for the child.
La terapia ABA es un método eficaz de análisis de la conducta para desarrollar conductas positivas y resolver comportamientos problemáticos. El ABA está basado en la evidencia y se centra en las habilidades fundamentales del desarrollo, incluyendo la cognición, el comportamiento, la comunicación, el habla y el lenguaje, y más. Si el equipo de profesionales y los padres creen que la terapia ABA es una buena opción para el niño, el M-CHAT puede ayudar al terapeuta a determinar qué habilidades deben ser objeto de atención a lo largo de la terapia.
An M-CHAT cannot be 100% effective 100% of the time. However, it is a highly effective questionnaire that is widely used by parents.
Si es usted padre y le preocupa el desarrollo de su hijo, realizar el M-CHAT online puede ser un primer paso útil. Tras comentar los resultados con un profesional, podría determinar que un programa terapéutico de preescolar o una terapia ABA proporcionarán a su hijo el apoyo adicional que necesita.
Do you think your child could benefit from a Chicago therapeutic preschool program? Contact CST Academy at 773-620-7800 to learn more about the wide range of services we provide for children, including ABA therapy, feeding therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
