M-CHAT-R Autism Screening for 19-Month-Olds
At 19 months, early social-communication patterns are clearly observable, making the M-CHAT-R a useful tool whether you missed the standard 18-month screen or have developed new concerns in recent weeks.
- Questions
- 20
- Format
- Yes / No
- Time
- ~5 minutes
- Completed by
- Parent or caregiver
- Age range
- 16–30 months
About the M-CHAT-R
By 19 months, many children are beginning to combine two words ('more milk', 'daddy go') and showing increasing interest in other children. They typically engage in back-and-forth play with familiar adults, imitate household activities, and check back with caregivers when exploring new situations.
The M-CHAT-R at 19 months captures whether these social communication milestones are present. Children who are not yet attempting word combinations or who show limited interest in shared activities with caregivers may benefit from a timely screen and, if positive, prompt follow-up.
Source: Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised — Robins, Fein & Barton (2009)
Frequently asked questions
- My 19-month-old isn't combining two words yet. Should I be worried?
- Two-word combinations typically emerge between 18 and 24 months. Their absence alone is not diagnostic, but when combined with other M-CHAT-R items — limited pointing, poor eye contact, or inconsistent name response — it can indicate a pattern worth investigating. The checklist gives you a structured way to assess multiple behaviours together.
- Is it too late to screen at 19 months if I missed the 18-month check?
- Not at all. The M-CHAT-R is validated for the full 16 to 30-month range. There is no benefit to waiting; completing the checklist now gives you a current snapshot of your child's social communication behaviours.
- What happens if my child screens at risk?
- A positive screen means enough reported behaviours are present to warrant further evaluation. The recommended next step is a referral to a developmental paediatrician, paediatric psychologist, or specialist autism diagnostic service. Early referral leads to earlier access to support.
- Does a positive screen mean my child has autism?
- No. A positive screen is not a diagnosis. Many children who screen positive do not receive an autism diagnosis after full evaluation. Only a qualified clinician carrying out a comprehensive assessment can diagnose autism spectrum disorder.
- How long does the screening take?
- Most parents complete the M-CHAT-R in 3 to 5 minutes. Results and guidance are available immediately after the last question.
Free · Private · Results in under 15 minutes