Learn what M-CHAT screening is, when it’s usually done at 18 and 24 months, how to prepare, and what positive screening results may mean. Get clear, personalized guidance for your next step.
Whether you’re deciding about screening, getting ready to complete the questionnaire, or trying to understand results and next steps, we’ll help you focus on what matters now.
M-CHAT screening is a parent questionnaire used to look for early signs that may suggest a child could benefit from further evaluation for autism. It is designed for toddlers and is commonly used during routine well-child visits. A screening does not diagnose autism. Instead, it helps identify whether more follow-up, observation, or referral may be helpful.
Many pediatric practices include M-CHAT screening at the 18-month visit as part of developmental screening. This timing can help identify concerns early.
M-CHAT screening at 24 months is also common. Some children are screened at both 18 and 24 months because development can change quickly during the toddler years.
If a parent, caregiver, or clinician notices social communication or behavior concerns between visits, screening or follow-up may be discussed even outside the usual schedule.
Before completing the questionnaire, reflect on how your toddler communicates, responds to their name, points, plays, and interacts during normal routines.
Try to answer according to what your child usually does, not just what happened once or twice. Honest answers help make the screening more useful.
If any item feels unclear, ask your pediatrician or care team. It can help to write down examples of behaviors you’ve noticed at home, daycare, or with family.
A low concern result generally means the screening did not show a strong need for immediate follow-up, but ongoing developmental monitoring still matters.
Some results lead to a follow-up interview or additional discussion. This helps clarify answers before deciding whether a referral is needed.
A positive screening result does not confirm autism. It means your child may need further evaluation, early intervention referral, or closer developmental follow-up.
If your toddler had a positive M-CHAT screening, the next step is usually to talk with your pediatrician about follow-up. Depending on the result and your child’s history, this may include a follow-up interview, referral for a developmental evaluation, hearing assessment, or early intervention services. Acting early can be helpful, even while you are still gathering more information.
M-CHAT screening is used to identify toddlers who may need more evaluation for autism-related developmental concerns. It is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.
M-CHAT screening is commonly done at 18 months and 24 months during well-child visits, though a clinician may discuss it at other times if concerns arise.
Yes. The M-CHAT questionnaire for parents asks about everyday behaviors such as eye contact, pointing, pretend play, and response to social interaction.
A positive result means your child may need follow-up questions, closer monitoring, or referral for further evaluation. It does not mean a child has autism.
It helps to think about your toddler’s usual behavior across settings and routines. Answer based on typical patterns, and bring any questions or concerns to your child’s clinician.
Answer a few questions to understand what M-CHAT screening may involve, how to prepare, and what next steps may make sense after results.
Answer a Few QuestionsExplore more assessments in this topic group.
See related assessments across this category.
Find more parenting assessments by category and topic.
Developmental Screenings
Developmental Screenings
Developmental Screenings
Developmental Screenings