Identifying autism early can make a world of difference in your child's development. For families across Raleigh–Durham and the greater Research Triangle region, early autism support means access to the therapies children need to thrive at home, in school, and out in the community. With the right care, children with autism can learn practical skills that help them succeed in everyday life.
What is autism, and what causes it?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people learn, act, and interact with others. Children with ASD may have challenges with social interactions, such as making eye contact, communicating verbally and nonverbally, and understanding social cues. They may also have specific, intense interests or engage in repetitive behaviors.
In Raleigh–Durham, North Carolina, as in the rest of the United States, families are often overwhelmed by the amount of information—and unfortunately, a lot of misinformation—out there about what causes autism. Autism doesn’t have one single known cause. However, decades of research suggest that autism likely develops from a combination of factors that affect early brain development. These factors don’t directly cause autism, but they may increase the likelihood that a child is diagnosed.
Genetics plays a significant role, as autism often runs in families. For example, if a child in the Research Triangle is diagnosed with autism, their younger siblings may have a higher chance of being diagnosed as well. Environmental factors may also contribute, including advanced parental age, pregnancy complications (such as low birth weight or premature birth), and prenatal exposure to certain medications or toxins. Scientists are learning more about autism every day.
The M-CHAT
Children 3 and younger
The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) helps parents assess their child's risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By answering questions about their child’s behavior, parents receive an autism risk score. This score can help parents decide if their child needs a more thorough evaluation.
The CAST
Children 4 and older
The Childhood Autism Spectrum Test (CAST), previously called the Childhood Asperger Syndrome Test, is an online questionnaire designed for parents. It asks about symptoms related to autism, such as issues with communication.
Need diagnostic support?
Children 18 months to 6 years old
If a screening tool or your child’s doctor suggests autism, the next step is to complete the ADOS-2 assessment. This research-backed evaluation is designed to help with accurate autism diagnosis for children of all ages, regardless of their language skills or developmental abilities.
Early signs of autism
Autism can show up in different ways, often becoming noticeable when a child is still very young. Autism spectrum disorder looks different from person to person. According to The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the guide doctors use to diagnose behavioral health conditions, common signs and behaviors of autism may include:
- Trouble reading social cues or making friends in preschool or school settings
- Delayed speech or repeating words
- Distress when routines change (like a new classroom or schedule)
- Strong interests in specific topics
- Sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures
- Motor challenges like tying shoes, riding a bike, or buttoning clothes
Parents in the Triangle area, Apex, Morrisville, and Wake Forest can start with no-cost screeners that only take a few minutes and can help you decide on the next steps.
Spotting early signs of autism is key for families in Raleigh, Durham, and Cary. Early detection means your child can receive therapy sooner, which improves long-term outcomes.
Very happy with ABC and all the therapists. They are all so sweet and nice, always willing to help in any way they can. My son loves going to "school" everyday and loves his therapists so much. I always leave with a peace of mind knowing they are taking good care of him and as a parent, that is the most important thing. We are so lucky to be part of the ABC family. I cannot recommend this place enough, absolutely happy with everyone here.
Developmental milestones by age
Every parent in North Carolina watches their child for new milestones, whether it’s a first word, a first step, or heading to kindergarten. Developmental milestones are skills most children can do by a certain age. They help parents and doctors see how a child is progressing and if more help is needed.
- By 18 months, many children point to show interest, use a few words, follow simple directions, walk on their own, and start feeding themselves.
- By 2 years old, they use two-word phrases, point to pictures, wave or blow kisses, look to adults for guidance, run, kick a ball, and climb stairs.
- By 3 years old, they join other children in play, have short back-and-forth conversations and ask questions, draw a circle or string items, and calm down after brief separations.
- By 4 years old, they play pretend, comfort others, adapt to new settings, speak in four-word sentences, recognize colors, draw a person with several parts, catch a ball, and can unbutton.
- By 5 years old, they follow rules and take turns, count to 10, recognize or write letters, button clothing, and hop on one foot.
If your child isn’t reaching these milestones, it may be time to explore autism screening options in Garner, Clayton, Cary, and Raleigh.
What are the levels of autism?
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