When caregivers have concerns about a toddler’s social communication or behavior, a brief standardized screener can help determine whether further evaluation is warranted. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT-R) is a parent-report screening measure designed to identify elevated likelihood of autism-related developmental concerns in early childhood.
It consists of 20 items and typically takes about 4 minutes to complete. Items ask about everyday behaviors and developmental milestones, supporting initial risk stratification and clinical decision-making regarding follow-up assessment. As described by D. L. Robins, M. Barton, and D. Fein, the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT-R) is intended for screening purposes and does not provide a diagnosis; results should be interpreted in the context of developmental history and, when indicated, referral for comprehensive evaluation.