By age 3, many kids are talking, playing, and showing big strides in independence. But for some parents, this is also the age when developmental differences become more noticeable. If you’re concerned about your 3-year-old’s communication, behavior, or social development, this 3-year-old autism quiz can help you organize your observations and take the next step with confidence. This quiz is not a diagnostic tool, but it will highlight areas to discuss with your pediatrician. From there, formal screening tools like the M-CHAT-R/F and CAST will give you more clarity.
Quick Quiz: 12 Early Signs of Autism to Look for at 3
Answer each question based on your child’s typical behavior over the past few weeks. Use “Yes,” “No,” or “Not Sure.”- Is your child speaking in short sentences or phrases (3 or more words)? Most 3-year-olds can put 3 words together.
- Does your child respond to their name without being prompted or touched? Name response is a big social and developmental skill.
- Does your child point to share something of interest (like a truck outside or a picture)? This is called “joint attention” and should be present by 2.
- Does your child play pretend (e.g., feeding a doll, pretending to cook)? Pretend play is a major milestone that continues to expand at 3.
- Does your child want to play with other kids? 3-year-olds are often drawn to peers, even if they’re still learning to share or take turns.
- Does your child make eye contact when talking or playing? Reduced eye contact may be an early sign of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Does your child imitate you or others (e.g., facial expressions, actions, words)? Imitation is the foundation of learning and social development.
- Does your child get upset by changes in routine or environment? While all toddlers love routine, extreme rigidity may be a sign of something more.
- Does your child show repetitive movements or behaviors (e.g., hand flapping, lining up toys, repeating phrases)?
- Does your child seem unusually sensitive, or under-reactive, to lights, sounds, textures, or pain? Sensory sensitivities are common in autistic children.
- Does your child struggle with transitions, like leaving the house or switching activities?
- Does your child show limited interest in communication, or seem more focused on objects than people?
What Your Answers Mean
This 3-year-old autism quiz is just a starting point. If you answered “No” or “Not Sure” to multiple questions, it may be time to move forward with formal screening tools that will give you more clarity.- Mostly “Yes” Answers: Your child is probably meeting most developmental milestones. Keep observing and continue to attend regular well-child visits.
- 3–4 “No” or “Not Sure” Answers: These could be delays worth watching. Consider moving forward with a validated autism screening. Early screening helps ensure timely support, no matter the outcome.
- 5 or More “No” or “Not Sure” Answers: These patterns suggest it’s time for a formal evaluation with a diagnostician.
What Are The Best Autism Screening Tools For 3-year-olds?
M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up)
The M-CHAT-R/F is considered one of the most common screening tools for a 3-year-old, especially for children under 3.5 years. It consists of 20 parent-report questions and a follow-up interview to clarify concerns. Pediatricians use the M-CHAT-R during 18- and 24-month well-child visits, but it’s still relevant for children up to 3 years old.CAST (Childhood Autism Spectrum Test)
The CAST is for children 4 to 11. While it may be used for children approaching 4, it’s not recommended for younger preschoolers or toddlers. If your child is 3.5 or older, your provider may suggest it, but for most 3-year-olds, the M-CHAT-R/F is the better tool. Both tools are research-based and used by pediatricians, psychologists, and early intervention programs. They don’t give a diagnosis, but they are the best way to determine if a full autism assessment is needed.Why Early Screening at 3
Research shows that acting early leads to better outcomes. At 3 years old, your child’s brain is still developing rapidly. The earlier support services like ABA therapy, speech-language therapy, or occupational therapy begin, the more progress your child can make. Even if a screening doesn’t lead to an autism diagnosis, it may highlight other areas, like language or motor development, where support can still make a difference.How Cultivate BHE Can Help
At Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education, we help families navigate every step of the screening and evaluation process. Whether you’re unsure how to interpret M-CHAT or CAST results or you’ve already received a referral and need ABA services, we’re here to guide and support you. We offer:- M-CHAT or CAST result interpretation
- In-home or clinic ABA therapy services
- Individualized support plans
- Training/education and support for parents and caregivers
