At 2 years old, your child is learning, exploring, and making big developmental leaps. But what if some of those milestones aren’t showing up on time? As a parent or caregiver, it may be hard to identify what is a normal delay and what might be something more concerning. That’s where early screening tools come in, and why this autism in 2-year-old quiz can help you think about your child’s behavior and know what to do next.
This quiz is not diagnostic, but it’s a helpful way to organize your observations. If several red flags come up, a trusted tool like the M-CHAT-R/F can guide your next conversation with your pediatrician and help determine whether further evaluation or early intervention is needed.
Quiz: 12 Signs to Look for in Your 2-Year-Old
Answer each question with Yes, No, or Not Sure based on your child’s recent behavior.
- Does your 2-year-old use words regularly and combine some into short phrases (like “more milk” or “go outside”)?
- Does your 2-year-old respond when you call their name — without needing touch or repeated prompting?
- Does your 2-year-old point to show you things that interest them, like a toy or animal, to share attention with you?
- Does your 2-year-old make regular eye contact during play, meals, or conversation?
- Does your 2-year-old try to copy what you do — clapping, waving, pretending to talk on the phone, or sweeping?
- Does your 2-year-old show curiosity or interest in other children, even if they mostly play alongside rather than together?
- Does your 2-year-old use pretend play, such as feeding a doll, driving toy cars, or using objects to represent something else?
- Does your 2-year-old seem comfortable with everyday noises, lights, and textures (not unusually sensitive or unaware)?
- Does your 2-year-old move in a variety of ways (walking, climbing, running) rather than repeating one movement over and over?
- Does your 2-year-old follow simple one-step directions like “Give me the ball” or “Come here”?
- Does your 2-year-old handle small changes in routine fairly well (for example, new toys or different mealtime spots)?
- Does your 2-year-old express emotions in recognizable ways — smiling, crying, showing excitement, or frustration appropriately?
What Your Answers Mean
Development at age 2 can vary quite a bit. Some children are speaking in sentences, while others are still building single words — and both can be completely normal.
This quiz is meant to help you notice patterns, not diagnose. Occasional “No” answers don’t necessarily indicate autism or a developmental disorder, but several consistent differences could be worth discussing with your pediatrician.
Mostly Yes: Your child appears to be developing social, communication, and play skills typical for their age. Keep encouraging interaction, play, and conversation.
Several No or Not Sure: These may point to areas where your child could use extra support or observation. Ask your pediatrician about early screening tools like the M-CHAT-R/F at your next visit.
Many No or Not Sure: If you notice frequent challenges with language, eye contact, social engagement, or repetitive movements, don’t wait — early screening and support can help your child’s development, whether or not autism is involved.
Why the M-CHAT-R/F Is the Next Step for 2-Year-Olds
If your child is between 16 and 30 months, the M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up) is one of the most widely used and trusted autism screening tools. It’s quick, free, and designed for parents. Pediatricians often use it during well visits at 18 and 24 months to check for early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The M-CHAT looks at the same behaviors covered in this quiz: response to name, pointing, pretend play, eye contact, social interest, and repetitive behaviors. It can’t provide a diagnosis, but it can help determine if your child should be referred for a full evaluation or early intervention services.
For slightly older children, typically age 4 and up, the CAST (Childhood Autism Spectrum Test) is another tool that may be recommended during the assessment process.
Why Early Screening Matters
Autism is a developmental difference that often begins to show between 12 and 24 months. The earlier it’s identified, the earlier a child can benefit from proven therapies like ABA, speech therapy, and social skills development.
Early screening doesn’t mean labeling a child too soon; it means getting the right information at the right time. Many children who score “at risk” on tools like the M-CHAT may not be diagnosed with autism, but still benefit from support that helps them thrive.
How Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education Can Help
At Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education, we work with families from the very beginning. If your child shows early signs of autism or scores in the concern range on the M-CHAT-R, we’ll walk with you through the next steps, evaluation, treatment options, and individualized therapy plans.
We offer:
- M-CHAT-R or CAST result interpretation
- High-quality ABA therapy services
- In-home and clinic-based services
- Early intervention enrollment guidance
What to Do Now
- Take the M-CHAT-R/F. If this quiz raised concerns, the M-CHAT is the next step. You can complete it in a few minutes and your pediatrician may already offer it at your child’s next visit.
- Share results with your doctor. Whether your child scores low or high risk, your provider can help interpret the results and decide if further evaluation is needed.
- Contact Cultivate. If screening leads to a referral, our team is here to help guide your child’s developmental journey.
Start Autism Screening Today
You know your child best. If something feels off, or if this autism in 2-year-old quiz raised questions, trust your instincts. Early screening through the M-CHAT-R can give you clarity, direction, and peace of mind.
Concerned about your 2-year-old child? Contact us today at Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education to get started.
