Is Autism Screening Part of Early Well-Child Visits?

The identification of developmental disorders is a key aspect of early well-child visits. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends specific screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for young children at 18 and 24 months.

April is National Autism Acceptance Month in the United States, a time to build awareness about this form of neurodivergence, a brain development condition that affects how a person communicates and socializes. Commonly called autism spectrum disorder (ASD), this condition typically emerges early in a child’s life and varies widely in both severity and symptoms.

Spotting the signs of autism early is an important part of intervention to minimize the impact of the condition. A well-child visit with our team at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics in Rockville, Maryland, includes screening for autism and other developmental disorders, to help you keep ahead of your child’s growth.

Is autism screening part of early well-child visits?

Identifying of developmental disorders is a key aspect of early well-child visits. As your child’s primary care provider, we’re well-placed to note any little twists and turns in behavior through our regular contact with your young one.

Most of the time, these changes are simply your child’s unique personality at work. There are few absolutes when it comes to a child’s growth.

Screening for autism is definitely an integral part of our well-child checklist. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that screening for developmental delays be conducted at 9, 18, and 30 months, along with specific screening for ASD at 18 and 24 months.

ASD can sometimes be detected in children younger than 18 months, and a diagnosis made by a qualified professional around your child’s second birthday is generally considered reliable.

What does ASD screening involve?

The purpose of autism screening is to recognize early developmental signs that could indicate autism. At a well-child screening, we’re looking for signs that your child may need further assessment. Screening isn’t equivalent to a diagnosis.

Some typical signs that might indicate autism include:

Not responding to their own name
Avoiding some or most forms of physical contact
Showing delayed development of gestures and/or speech
Not showing interest in people or objects
Becoming easily upset by small changes in routine

While we follow AAP guidelines for autism screening, no one knows your child better than you, so don’t wait for your next well-child visit if you suspect your child is displaying behaviors consistent with ASD.

The importance of early detection

Because autistic symptoms cover such a wide spectrum, treatment can be highly customized for each patient. Early detection allows us to start therapies when your child’s brain is at its highest level of neuroplasticity.

Until the age of about five, the brain forms neural connections at a rate higher than at any other time in life. Therefore, prompt care for autistic conditions means your child receives the help they need at the time they’re best able to benefit.

Contact Abdow Friendship Pediatrics if your young one is due for their next well-child visit. Call or click to book your appointment today.