M-CHAT-R

The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers Revised with Follow-Up is a free copyrighted tool that is used to identify risk for autism in children 16 to 30 months old.  This tool is designed to be completed by medical practitioners. This tool is designed to be completed based on your observations of the child’s usual behaviour.   The M-CHAT is not a diagnostic tool.  Not all children who receive a score of 'high risk' on the M-CHAT will be diagnosed with autism, however a score of 'high risk' is an indicator that there is need for further testing.

The M-CHAT is a two step process.

The M-CHAT is available for download here: mchatscreen.com.  The entire download is 25 pages in length including instructions.

Step 1: The M-CHAT-R

The M-CHAT-R

The M-CHAT-R is designed to be completed at a check up such as a Well-Baby or Well-Child visit.  The 20 questions in this screening tool should take no more than 5 minutes to complete, and should be scored using the scoring chart available in the download.

Step 2: The M-CHAT-R/F

The M-CHAT-R/F Scoring Sheet

The M-CHAT-R/F is the follow up screening tool, to be used after the M-CHAT-R is completed.  For each item that the child failed in the M-CHAT-R, the corresponding flow chart is to be completed for each item that the child failed.  Items that the child passed do not need further questioning.

M-CHAT-R/F Flow Chart

If a child receives a score of "high risk" on the M-CHAT-R/F, it is recommended that they be referred for additional diagnostic testing as soon as possible.

For more information and resources on the M-CHAT-R, please check out their website: https://mchatscreen.com/

Reference

Robins, D., Fein, D. & Barton, M. (2009)  The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up™.  Retrieved from: https://mchatscreen.com/