How to Fill out the CHAT Screening Questionnaire for Autism

Parents and physicians caring for children who may have autism use the CHAT screening questionnaire. The term CHAT stands for Checklist for Autism in Toddlers. Best completed by a pediatrician, the CHAT screening questionnaire looks at the developmental behavior of a child who is at least 18 months in age. The results will guide you in determining whether your child needs further screening.

Things You'll Need

• Pediatrician
• CHAT screening questionnaire form

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Instructions

• 1

  Obtain a copy of the CHAT screening questionnaire for autism. Be sure the questionnaire is the most current available. Medical and developmental experts who continue to study autism may change or alter screening tools as they learn more about the condition.

• 2

  Complete the first nine questions on the form. These questions are designed for the parents and caregivers (i.e. a nanny or babysitter who spends a good amount of time with your child).

• 3

  Set up an appointment to meet with your pediatrician. Bring the CHAT screening questionnaire to the appointment with the first nine questions complete.

• 4

  Discuss the possibility of autism with your pediatrician before you request that she fill out the CHAT screening questionnaire. If you and your pediatrician agree there is a reason to believe your child has autism, ask her to fill out the remainder of the form.

• 5

  Test your child again in a few months if the first exam showed no signs of autism. Children may develop autistic tendencies and traits at different ages.

• 6

  Consider the M-CHAT screening questionnaire for children who have not yet reached 18 months of age. This newer method of screening is a shortened version of the CHAT screening questionnaire meant for younger children. Your pediatrician will fill out the M-CHAT screening questionnaire the same way as the CHAT form.