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If you or your child might be on the autism spectrum, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming. An autism screening tool can provide a helpful first step, allowing you to assess certain behaviors and traits.
In this post, we’ll explain autism screening, how it can help, and what to expect throughout the process.
With clear information and supportive advice, you’ll feel more prepared to make informed choices for yourself or your loved one.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how individuals communicate, interact, and behave.
It’s a spectrum disorder because it encompasses a wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of disability.
People with ASD can have a variety of symptoms, including:
- Difficulty with social interactions: This can manifest as difficulty making eye contact, taking turns in conversations, or understanding nonverbal cues.
- Repetitive behaviors: This can include repetitive movements, such as hand flapping or rocking, or repetitive vocalizations.
- Difficulty with communication: This can range from delayed speech development to difficulty understanding and using language.
- Sensory issues: People with ASD may be more sensitive to certain stimuli, such as loud noises or bright lights.
- Restricted interests: Many individuals with ASD have intense interests in specific topics, objects, or activities. They may also have difficulty adapting to changes in routines and preferences.
Why is Autism Screening Important for Children and Adults?
Autism screening is essential because it enables early detection and intervention.
Early support for a child with autism can significantly enhance communication, social skills, and behavior, setting the foundation for better long-term outcomes.
Early intervention has been shown to promote better communication, social skills, and behavior in children with ASD.
Screening isn’t just valuable for children—many adults also discover insights through an autism diagnosis, which can provide clarity and access to necessary support and accommodations.
Identifying autism in adulthood can help individuals better understand their challenges and access resources to improve their quality of life.
Additionally, autism screening can help reduce stigma and increase awareness about the condition.
By encouraging early detection and intervention, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society for individuals with autism.
ADI-R and ADOS: Top Tools for Autism Screening
Autism screenings rely on specialized tools that allow healthcare professionals to gather a thorough understanding of an individual’s behaviors and needs.
Two of the most effective tools are the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).
- Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R): This structured interview is conducted with you, the child’s caregiver, to gather detailed information about your child’s developmental history, communication abilities, social interactions, and autism-related behaviors.
- Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS): The ADOS complements the ADI-R by directly assessing individuals of all ages, from children to adults, who might be on the spectrum.
During this session, a specialist engages with you or your child through structured tasks that create social scenarios where autism-related behaviors can be observed.
This helps evaluate communication, social interaction, and play or imaginative skills in younger children and conversational and social skills in adolescents and adults.
At the Autism Evaluation Center of South Central Wisconsin, we offer comprehensive autism evaluations for adults and children using the ADI-R and ADOS tools.
Our child autism evaluation helps families understand their child’s unique needs, while our autism screening for adults provides insight and clarity for those seeking answers later in life.
If you’re ready to take the first step in understanding autism, reach out to schedule an evaluation with our compassionate team. We’re here to support you at every stage of the process.