Universal Autism Screening in Early Learning Programs: A Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Developmental Pediatrics
• Early Childhood Education
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Background:

• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends autism screening at 18 and 24 months.
• Early identification and intervention (EI) are crucial for improving developmental outcomes in children.
• Disparities exist in autism diagnosis and service access for racial and ethnic minority children in the U.S.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of implementing autism screening within an early learning program (ELP).
• To determine if ELP staff can be trained to effectively administer autism screenings.
• To evaluate the connection to early intervention services for children identified through ELP screening.

Main Methods:

• A feasibility study was conducted in one ELP.
• ELP teachers and staff received training on the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers-Revised (M-CHAT-R).
• Staff independently screened enrolled children aged 16-30 months.

Main Results:

• 79 out of 80 eligible children were screened.
• 14 children had positive screening results, leading to referrals for early intervention (EI).
• Of the 14 positive screens, 8 families completed EI evaluations, and 4 children received autism diagnoses.

Conclusions:

• Autism-specific screening is feasible within an early learning program setting.
• ELP-based screening can effectively identify children needing further evaluation and intervention.
• This approach may help reduce disparities in autism identification and service access.