Learning Module on Early Identification of ASD
Early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a topic of much national attention, and for which we need sound practices in child find and outreach as well as valid and reliable measures for surveillance, screening and diagnosis.
Module Topics
A. Importance of Early Identification
B. Early Characteristics of ASD
C. Surveillance, Screening, and Diagnostic Assessments
What information is covered in this module?
This module will first address the importance of early identification, including the benefits and challenges to families, communities, and society.
Then the focus will shift to describing the early characteristics of ASD as described in the DSM-IV and a recommended set of practices that will lead to early identification of ASD. This includes a description of surveillance, screening, and diagnostic assessment practices along with the tools and processes that will assist professionals in communicating with families about their young child’s status relative to ASD.
This module will end by providing information about national resources and initiatives committed to early identification for the purpose of follow up and referral to services, resources, and supports.
This module was developed by the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder. Updated in 2011
Module Authors
- Sally Ozonoff, PhD, Sally Rogers, PhD, and Linda Tuchman-Ginsberg, Ph.D.