Signs of autism can generally first be detected by a professional during the early developmental period, around the age of 2. There are a few of autism assessments that encompass this age. For example, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule - 2nd edition (ADOS-2) is arguably the gold standard of autism tests and can be utilized for kids as young as 12 months.
As a side note, some insurance companies may require the ADOS-2 be administered through a diagnostic evaluation prior to reimbursing for some intervention services associated with treatment for autism (behavior therapy, speech services, occupational therapy, etc.).

Now, back to early detection. Families may come in for autism testing for an endless number of reasons. However, early detection of a disorder leads to early treatment of symptoms and helps professionals address challenges. I consider early treatment to be one of the most important reasons for completing autism testing. During early development, a child's brain is quickly forming new connections and developing. This is a perfect time for kids to be taught new skills and soak up those interventions like a sponge!
Just to dive into the research shared by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2021), receiving interventions for autism early in development can lead to:
Higher IQ/cognitive scores compared to the average autism population.
Improvement in language skills
Better gross and fine motor skills
Progression in communication and social skills.
Increased independence and ability to care for ones self.
That being said, there are many other reasons to complete an evaluation for autism and many benefits that can result from intervention later in life. What are some other reasons you may want to complete an evaluation? Have you seen any benefits not mentioned?
Thanks for reading!
- Kaylee James, PsyD
Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog and website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this on the website is intended to be a substitute for professional, psychological, psychiatric, or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Please note that no doctor-patient, supervisory, or consultative relationship is formed. If you need the qualified advice, supervision, or consultation of any mental health practitioner or medical provider, please seek one in your area.
References:
Reichow, B., & Wolery, M. (2009). Comprehensive synthesis of early intensive behavioral interventions for young children with autism based on the UCLA young autism project model. Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 39(1), 23–41. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-008-0596-0
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2021, April 19). Early intervention for autism. Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/autism/conditioninfo/treatments/early-intervention
Waizbard-Bartov, E., Ferrer, E., Young, G.S. et al. Trajectories of Autism Symptom Severity Change During Early Childhood. J Autism Dev Disord , 51, 227–242 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04526-z
Zwaigenbaum, L., Bauman, M. L., Choueiri, R., et al (2015). Early Intervention for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Under 3 Years of Age: Recommendations for Practice and Research. Pediatrics, 136 Suppl 1(Suppl 1), S60–S81. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2014-3667E
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