Which tool is effective for screening children from 16 to 30 months for autism spectrum disorders?

The M-CHAT, or Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, is specifically designed to screen children for autism spectrum disorders in the age range of 16 to 30 months. This tool consists of a series of yes/no questions that parents or caregivers can answer regarding their child's behavior and communication skills. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to identify children who may be at risk for autism, facilitating early intervention and support.

This screening tool is grounded in research that emphasizes early detection of autism, which is crucial for effective treatment and support. The M-CHAT has been validated for use in this age group, making it a recognized and reliable resource. Its targeted approach allows healthcare providers to efficiently assess the likelihood of autism symptoms based on typical developmental milestones.

While the other tools mentioned, such as the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Denver II, and Cognitive Adaptive Test, serve important roles in developmental screening and assessment, they are broader in scope and not specifically tailored for autism screening in toddlers. These instruments assess various aspects of child development but do not focus exclusively on the indicators relevant to autism spectrum disorders as the M-CHAT does. Therefore, for the purpose of screening for autism specifically in the specified age range, the M-CHAT is the most effective choice.