M-CHAT-R/F Understanding Your Child
Important Note
This digital assistant section provides general information about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is not meant to be medical advice, a diagnosis, or a way to get treatment. If you have any questions about ASD, please talk to a doctor, a clinical psychologist or a relevant medical professional.
The M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up) is a simple screening tool designed to help parents identify if their child may be at risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
M-CHAT-R/F is a checklist that can be used to look for signs of autism in toddlers under 3 years old. It asks about how your child plays, learns, and acts. This checklist has been scientifically reviewed internationally and is used around the world.
In Malaysia, it is also available in the Buku Rekod Kesihatan Bayi & Kanak-kanak (0-6 tahun) Blue for Boys, Pink for Girls, as an embedded tool for 0 – 3 years screening.
Think of it as a quick health check for your child’s social and communication development.
Background
The M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up) was built upon years of research and collaboration.
Its origins trace back to the original M-CHAT, developed in 1999 by Dr. Diana L. Robins and a team of researchers at the University of California, San Diego USA. This initial checklist, intended for use by parents and paediatricians, aimed to screen for autism in toddlers.
Dr. Robins and a team of researchers then developed the M-CHAT-R in 2009. This revised version resolved some earlier limitations and has since been adopted widely as a trusted tool to improve early identification and intervention for children with autism.
The latest version available today is the M-CHAT-R/F, a further refinement of the M-CHAT-R. This version continues to be a valuable tool for parents and healthcare professionals in the early detection of potential ASD.
Why is the M-CHAT-R/F helpful?
1. Early identification is key
The earlier ASD is recognised, the sooner your child can receive support and intervention, which can significantly improve their long-term outcomes.
The M-CHAT-R/F is a questionnaire you can fill out at home.
It’s been tested and validated by researchers and is used by healthcare professionals globally.
The M-CHAT-R/F is a screening tool, meaning it helps to identify children who may need further evaluation. It doesn’t diagnose ASD.
How to use the M-CHAT-R/F
- Download the questionnaire
You can find the M-CHAT-R/F online or request it from your child’s doctor.
For any future updates, check the main translation page
- Answer the questions honestly
Read each question carefully and answer it based on your child’s behaviour. Don’t worry if you’re unsure about some answers; there’s a follow-up section to clarify.
NOTE : It’s really helpful for both parents to go through this checklist together. You both might have noticed different things about your child and talking about it can help you both see commonalities.
- Review the results
The M-CHAT-R/F has a scoring system on the website you can input directly. If your child scores high, it doesn’t mean they have ASD. It may mean they need to be evaluated by a professional.
- Talk to your paediatrician
Share the results with your child’s doctor. They can advise you on the possible next steps, which include further screening, a referral to a specialist, or simply reassurance.
Important things to remember
- The M-CHAT-R/F is just one assessment tool.
If you have concerns about your child’s development, talk to your paediatrician regardless of the M-CHAT-R/F results.
- Early intervention is crucial for children with ASD,
- The M-CHAT-R/F is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis.
Important Note
M-CHAT doesn’t diagnose autism. If you’re worried about your child, always discuss it with a doctor or relevant health professional.