Autism Testing for Children in Indiana
Supporting you every step of the way
Comprehensive Autism Evaluations
If you think your child may have autism, our team offers a thorough evaluation using proven, research-based assessments.
Understanding Autism
If you notice that your child is missing developmental milestones, it can be overwhelming. You probably have many questions, so let’s start with the basics.
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects communication, social interactions, learning, and behavior. It usually appears in early childhood, but the exact cause is unknown. Autism affects children of all backgrounds.
Because autism is a spectrum, every child experiences it differently. Some children may not speak, while others do. Some may be sensitive to noise or bright lights, while others are not.
At BACA, we believe early action is key to finding the right support for your child. We’re here to help from the start.
Understanding the Symptoms
Autism can be hard to diagnose because the signs vary, but you can watch for early clues. As your child grows, pay attention to whether they are reaching common milestones for their age.
In the first five years, kids learn to walk, talk, and interact with others. Since you know your child best, trust your instincts. If they seem behind in certain areas, take notes and talk to your pediatrician. Share any concerns about autism symptoms with your child’s pediatrician.
Signs of autism can include: :
- Not smiling at others by 6 months of age
- Not pointing or using gestures to communicate by 12 months
- Not babbling or making playful sounds by 12 months
- Not using single words such as “mama” or “dada” by 16 months
- Not forming simple two-word phrases such as “want cup” or “go play” by 24 months
- Not responding to voices, sounds, or their own name by age 3
- Avoiding eye contact by age 3
- Showing little interest in other children or caregivers by age 3
- Losing skills they previously had at any point before age 3
Getting an Autism Diagnosis
If you notice an early sign or have a gut feeling that something isn’t right, talk to your child’s pediatrician.
Autism can’t be diagnosed with a medical or blood test. Instead, clinicians assess your child’s developmental history and behavior. They may also check for other medical issues, such as hearing or speech problems.
If your pediatrician suspects autism, they will refer you to a specialist for a full evaluation. This may include a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, developmental pediatrician, or pediatric neurologist.
A Thorough Autism Evaluation Involves:
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An interview with parents or caregivers |
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A complete medical exam |
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A review of all related medical, psychological, and school records |
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An assessment of your child’s cognitive, developmental, and adaptive functioning skills |
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An observation of your child playing |
We know how easy it is to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’re here to partner with you and to support you from day one. We give you the tools and training you need to nurture your child’s unique potential.
