Autism Testing for Toddlers: How to Prepare

Many parents experience a mix of concern and uncertainty when preparing their child for an autism evaluation. These feelings are normal, but with practical preparation, both you and your toddler can approach the process with confidence. At the Chicago Autism Testing Institute, we specialize in family-focused, play-based autism assessments and formal evaluations tailored to toddlers. Our supportive team uses specific diagnostic tools and autism-specific assessment tools, following guidelines from the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to guide your family every step of the way.

A thorough assessment, or formal evaluation, involves the use of specific tools and diagnostic instruments to gather information about your child's development. The goal is to understand each child's strengths and challenges—highlighting your child's strengths as well as areas that may need support.

This guide will provide tips and insights to help you and your child feel at ease before, during, and after the evaluation.

Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and behaves. Children with autism spectrum disorder may experience persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, which can show up in many different ways—such as challenges with back-and-forth conversation, understanding nonverbal cues, or forming relationships with others. In addition to these social differences, ASD is also characterized by repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, which might include routines, specific interests, or repetitive movements.

Diagnosing autism is a careful process that relies on guidelines set by the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5). This manual outlines the criteria for autism diagnosis, emphasizing that a thorough assessment is needed—one that looks at a child’s behaviors across different settings and considers their developmental history. Because autism spectrum disorder can look different in every child, a detailed evaluation is essential to understand each child’s unique strengths and challenges.

The Importance of Early Identification

Recognizing the early signs of autism spectrum disorder is one of the most important steps parents and caregivers can take. Early identification allows children to access early intervention services, which research studies have shown can make a significant difference in cognitive development, language skills, and social interaction. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children receive autism screening at their 9-, 18-, and 24- or 30-month well-child visits.

A child’s healthcare provider plays a key role in spotting early signs of autism and guiding families toward further evaluation if needed. Parents are encouraged to trust their instincts—if you notice differences in your child’s development or social interaction, don’t hesitate to ask for autism screening or a referral. Early identification opens the door to supports that can help your child reach their full potential.

Autism Screening and Screening Tools

Autism screening is an important first step in identifying children who may have autism spectrum disorder. Screening tools are designed to help parents and healthcare providers spot early signs of autism and determine if a child should be referred for further evaluation. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children undergo developmental and behavioral screening at regular intervals during well-child visits.

There are a variety of autism screening tools available, ranging from simple checklists to more structured assessments. Some of the most widely used tools include the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI), which help identify children who may benefit from a more thorough assessment. It’s important to remember that a screening tool does not provide a formal diagnosis—rather, a positive screening result means that further evaluation is needed to better understand your child’s development.

Talking to Your Child About the Appointment

Toddlers often find new experiences more manageable when approached with calm, simple explanations. Before the evaluation, consider how you might describe the visit in age-appropriate terms.

Try framing it positively, such as, “We’re going to meet some new friends who want to play games and learn more about you!" Avoid potentially worrying terms like “testing” or “evaluation.” Instead, normalize it as an opportunity for fun and exploration in a safe environment.

This gentle preparation helps create a sense of trust and reassurance ahead of their big day.

What to Bring to the Appointment

Packing thoughtfully can make the experience smoother for both you and your child. Here are some essentials to consider bringing for your toddler’s comfort and your convenience:

1. Comfort Items: A favorite toy, blanket, or even a familiar snack can help your child feel secure.
2. Practical Needs: If your toddler is very young, pack items like diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes.
3. Important Documents: Bring any relevant paperwork, including medical records, previous developmental assessments, teacher reports, filled-out questionnaires from your provider, results from other tests, and a summary of your child's developmental history.
4. Snacks and Water: Small, easy-to-eat snacks can help maintain your toddler’s focus and energy throughout the appointment.

Having these items on hand ensures you’re prepared for any situation, from soothing nerves to addressing hunger.

Helping Your Toddler Feel Comfortable

Preparing your toddler mentally and physically for the evaluation can go a long way in creating a smooth experience. Try the following strategies:

• Routines: Stick to your family’s normal schedule leading up to the visit, including naps and meal times.
• Calm Play: Before the appointment, engage in quiet, soothing activities like reading a book or working on a puzzle together.
• Comfortable Attire: Dress your child in loose, soft clothing to help them feel at ease throughout the session.
• Transitions: Use tools like social stories or a visual schedule to familiarize your toddler with what to expect during the visit.

The goal is to help your little one feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible in this new environment.

Preparing as a Parent

Your role in the process is essential. Feeling prepared yourself will help you support your child more effectively.

• Developmental History: Be ready to share details about your child’s development, including milestones, daily habits, and behaviors. Mention any concerns about intellectual disability or mental disorders, as well as relevant family medical history.
• Concerns and Examples: If specific issues have raised your interest in autism testing, jot them down beforehand.
• Questions for the Evaluator: Make a list of any questions you’d like answered during or after the assessment.

Remember, as your child’s biggest advocate, you bring invaluable insights to the evaluation. Don’t hesitate to speak up—it’s a collaborative effort with medical professionals to ensure the best possible outcome for your child.

What to Expect During Autism Testing

There is no blood test to diagnose autism; instead, the process relies on behavioral observations and developmental history. Autism evaluations at the Chicago Autism Testing Institute are designed with toddlers in mind. Our goal is to create a relaxed, welcoming environment where children can comfortably be themselves. Here’s what you can expect during your child's autism evaluation:

• Play-Based Activities: Evaluators use playful, age-appropriate interactions to assess your child’s strengths and challenges. Tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) may be used to support the assessment process.
• Built-in Breaks: We understand toddlers may need rest or time to regroup, so breaks are part of the process.
• Parental Presence: Depending on the evaluation, parents may remain in the room to offer comfort or answer questions.
• Flexibility: If your child is shy, tired, or upset, our team is trained to adapt and meet them where they are.
• Specialist Team: Our team includes professionals such as pediatric neuropsychologists, who play a key role in the assessment by observing your child’s development, administering structured tests, and using questionnaires to identify strengths and challenges.

The entire process is designed to diagnose autism and support autistic individuals and autistic people, ensuring your toddler feels safe and engaged at every step.

Tips for a Smooth Evaluation Day

The day of the autism evaluation can feel full of unknowns, but a little planning can make it much easier. Follow these tips to set yourself and your child up for success:

• Timing is Everything: Schedule the appointment during a time when your toddler is typically happy and alert. For many families, morning slots work best.
• Travel Buffer: Leave extra time to account for delays, ensuring a calm arrival without the stress of rushing.
• Address Separation Anxiety: Bring additional comfort items if your child struggles with transitions or separation.
• Be Patient: Toddlers don’t need to perform perfectly. Our evaluators expect natural behaviors, even moments of frustration or distraction.

With these small adjustments, you can focus on being present for your child rather than worrying about logistics.

After the Appointment

Once the evaluation is complete, there are a few final steps to keep in mind:

• Reassure Your Child: Offer praise for their efforts and perhaps follow up with a fun, low-key activity to celebrate the day.
• Await Results: Evaluators may take a few days or weeks to finalize their findings. Expect a feedback session where the results will be explained clearly, along with recommendations for next steps.
• Access Support: Depending on the results, your child may benefit from supports like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or ABA therapy. These services can often be started quickly after diagnosis, allowing your child to access the care they need early. For older children, evaluations and related services can often be requested directly through your child's school or school systems, with support provided in school settings as part of special education programs.

Learn more about next steps in our article "Life After an Autism Diagnosis: Next Steps for Families".

Taking the First Step

Walking into an autism evaluation may feel overwhelming at first, but preparation makes all the difference. By planning ahead and leaning on trusted providers like the Chicago Autism Testing Institute, you’re giving your child the opportunity to thrive.

The evaluation is just the beginning—it paves the way for a better understanding of your child’s needs and the services that can help them grow.

Ready to schedule your child’s autism evaluation? Contact the Chicago Autism Testing Institute today to get started.

Your concerns matter, and so does your child’s future. We’re here to help you take those important first steps with confidence and care.