M-CHAT-R
Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised
Validated by Robins, Casagrande, Barton et al. (2014) · View paper
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Jaye Turrietta, PsyD, BCBA-D, AEP
A 20-item parent-report screener for autism risk in toddlers aged 16–30 months.
Answer each question based on how your child usually behaves. If you have seen the behavior a few times but your child does not usually do it, answer No.
20 questions · ~5 min · Auto-saved
About the M-CHAT-R
The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT-R) was developed by Diana Robins, Deborah Fein, and Marianne Barton. It is the autism screening tool recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for all children at their 18- and 24-month well-child visits. It is one of the most widely used and validated autism screening instruments in the world.
20 yes/no questions completed by the parent or caregiver. Designed for toddlers aged 16–30 months. Takes about 5 minutes.
How it works
For most items, a “No” response indicates elevated risk. Three items (2, 5, and 12) are reverse-scored, meaning “Yes” indicates risk. The total score falls into three categories: Low (0–2), Moderate (3–7), or High (8–20).
What the scores mean
- Low (0–2): Child has screened negative. No action needed unless under 24 months (re-screen at 24 months).
- Moderate (3–7): Administer the M-CHAT-R Follow-Up for clarification. If 2 or more items remain elevated, refer for evaluation.
- High (8–20): Child has screened positive. Bypass Follow-Up and refer immediately for early intervention and diagnostic evaluation.
Important: The M-CHAT-R is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. A positive screen means further evaluation is recommended, not that your child is autistic. Discuss all results with your child’s pediatrician.
Robins, D. L., Fein, D., & Barton, M. L. (2009). Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F). Pediatrics, 133(1), 37–45. Revised 2014.
