Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT)

The Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) is an observational screening tool designed to help identify early signs of autism in children aged between 18 and 24 months. This questionnaire comprises 20 questions that evaluate behaviors related to social interaction, communication, and play. CHAT was created to assist parents and healthcare professionals in recognizing early indicators of autism spectrum disorders, allowing for timely intervention and support.

Instructions: Carefully read each statement below and determine if it describes your child’s usual behaviors. Please answer each question based on your observations and interactions with your child in everyday settings.

Question	Yes	No
1. Does your child enjoy playing peek-a-boo or other social games?
2. Does your child point to indicate interest in something?
3. Does your child look at something you are pointing at?
4. Does your child pretend play, such as pretending to drink from an empty cup?
5. Does your child show interest in other children?
6. Does your child respond to their name when called?
7. Does your child follow simple commands, such as “come here”?
8. Does your child use gestures, such as waving or nodding?
9. Does your child make eye contact with you during interactions?
10. Does your child enjoy being cuddled or held?
11. Does your child imitate actions, like clapping or waving?
12. Does your child smile back when you smile at them?
13. Does your child show concern when others are upset?
14. Does your child point to ask for something they want?
15. Does your child babble or use words to communicate?
16. Does your child try to attract your attention to show you something interesting?
17. Does your child react when you enter or leave a room?
18. Does your child explore new environments with interest?
19. Does your child enjoy playing with toys in a typical way (e.g., rolling a car)?
20. Does your child show different emotions appropriately (e.g., happy, sad)?

Understanding the Purpose of the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers

CHAT helps in identifying potential early signs of autism by examining how toddlers interact with their environment. It focuses on behaviors such as responding to their name, pointing to indicate interest, and engaging in imaginative play. These questions are framed to understand whether certain social cues and communication skills are being developed as expected. Early identification of autism allows families to access early interventions, which can have a significant impact on the child's overall development and learning abilities.

Core Behaviors Assessed by CHAT

The questions in CHAT primarily assess areas including joint attention, eye contact, social reciprocity, and motor skills. For example, joint attention is evaluated by determining if the child spontaneously follows the gaze of an adult or points at objects to share experiences. These behaviors are fundamental to healthy development and are commonly absent or delayed in children with autism. CHAT offers a straightforward yet effective way for parents and caregivers to reflect on their child's social and communicative milestones.

Significance of the CHAT in Early Development

The Checklist for Autism in Toddlers is valuable for both parents and healthcare providers because it helps determine if further evaluation is needed. Although CHAT is not a diagnostic tool, it helps flag possible concerns that may benefit from a professional assessment. Healthcare providers can use the responses to make informed decisions about whether to refer a child for additional diagnostic testing or developmental support. The CHAT's emphasis on identifying delays or atypical patterns in early communication provides an important step towards ensuring a child’s development is on the right track.

How CHAT Contributes to Better Support

Using CHAT as an initial screening measure supports early recognition of atypical development, which can lead to timely interventions. Recognizing and acting on signs of autism in a toddler’s early years increases the likelihood of successful therapy and support outcomes, improving long-term quality of life. Early intervention programs tailored for young children can effectively foster communication skills, social understanding, and emotional regulation. Thus, completing CHAT is often the first step in ensuring that children showing early warning signs receive the proper guidance and assistance needed to thrive.