Understanding autism should feelclear, respectful, and reliable.

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability associated with differences in the brain. Autistic people may communicate, interact, learn, move, process information, or experience everyday life differently. Autism is called a spectrum because characteristics, abilities, and support needs vary widely.

Autism characteristics can include differences in social communication and interaction, repetitive behaviors or movements, focused interests, strong preferences for routines, and different ways of learning, moving, paying attention, or responding to sensory experiences. These characteristics vary significantly between people.

No. Screening helps identify whether additional evaluation may be appropriate. A screening result does not provide an autism diagnosis.

No. There is no blood test or single medical test that diagnoses autism. Diagnosis is based on developmental history, behavior, observation, and other information gathered during an appropriate evaluation.

CDC states that autism can sometimes be detected at 18 months or younger and that by age 2 a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered reliable. Some people are not diagnosed until later childhood, adolescence, or adulthood.

Yes. Some autistic people are not diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood. Adult evaluation may involve reviewing developmental history, communication, behavior, current functioning, and other relevant information.

Discuss your concerns with your child’s health professional and ask about developmental screening or evaluation. Families can also explore early intervention or school based evaluation options depending on the child’s age and needs.