What are the 15 questions that determine if your child has autism?

The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT)

The M-CHAT is a 15-item questionnaire for parents of children between 16 and 30 months of age. It is designed to screen for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The 15 questions are:

1. Does your child smile when you smile at him or her?

2. Does your child make eye contact when you talk to him or her?

3. Does your child point at things to show you?

4. Does your child play with toys in a pretend way, pretending that the toy is something else?

5. Does your child use 2 or more different words other than "mama" or "dada" when talking to you or others?

6. Does your child follow simple instructions (such as "Give me the ball")?

7. Does your child ever get upset or frustrated if you change something in the way things are usually done, like their daily routine?

8. Does your child ever line things up or stack them (such as blocks or toys)?

9. Does your child ever flap their hands or wave their arms in excitement or frustration?

10. Does your child ever walk on their toes or in a funny way?

11. Does your child ever repeat the same words or phrases over and over?

12. Does your child ever pretend to be someone else, like a super hero or a teacher?

13. Does your child ever seem not to hear or respond when you call their name?

14. Does your child ever get upset if you hold them?

15. Does your child ever stare at lights, fans, wheels or other objects for a long time?

If you answered "no" to two or more of these questions, you should talk to your doctor about your child's development.

It is important to note that the M-CHAT is only a screening tool. A diagnosis of ASD can only be made by a qualified professional.