Parents are the world’s best observers. You notice the little things before anyone else does.
Maybe you’ve noticed your child doesn’t turn when you call their name. Maybe they line up their toys instead of pretending to feed them. Or maybe they seem to be in their own little world, unreachable even when you are right next to them.
You might be asking, “Is this just a phase, or is it something more?”
In India, getting an appointment with a developmental pediatrician can take months. You need an answer sooner. You need a way to check if your concerns are valid.
The Science: The “First Step” Tool
The IASQ (Indian Autism Screening Questionnaire) was developed by the National Institute for the Mentally Handicapped (now NIEPID)—the same government body that created the detailed ISAA.
While the ISAA is a 40-minute diagnostic exam for doctors, the IASQ is a 10-question rapid screener designed for you.
It was created to be simple, quick, and culturally appropriate. It strips away the medical jargon and asks straightforward questions about the core red flags of autism: lack of eye contact, difficulty with social play, and repetitive behaviors. Studies in the Indian Journal of Clinical Psychology show it is highly accurate at separating children who need further testing from those who don’t.
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The Tool: IASQ
This tool is designed for parents and teachers. It consists of 10 simple questions.
👉 Take the Test: Indian Autism Screening Questionnaire (IASQ)
What To Do With Your Score
- Score < 5: It is likely your child is developing typically or has difficulties unrelated to autism.
- Score > 5: This is considered a “positive screen.” It indicates a high possibility of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Next Steps: If your child scores high, do not panic. This is not a diagnosis; it is a signal to take action.
- Schedule an Evaluation: Take this result to a pediatrician or clinical psychologist.
- Ask for the ISAA: Request a full assessment using the ISAA (Article #31) for a formal diagnosis.
- Start Early Intervention: You do not need a diagnosis to start therapy. If your child has speech delays, start speech therapy immediately. The earlier, the better.
Safety & Disclaimer
This tool is for educational screening purposes only.
- Not a Diagnosis: A high score on the IASQ does not mean your child definitely has autism. Hearing issues or other developmental delays can also cause high scores.
- Support: If you are worried, trust your gut. You are your child’s best advocate.
References
- National Institute for the Mentally Handicapped. (2009). Indian Autism Screening Questionnaire (IASQ). Secunderabad: NIMH.
- Konda, R., & Rozatkar, A. (2016). Validity of Indian Autism Screening Questionnaire (IASQ) in clinical setting. Indian Journal of Clinical Psychology.
- Malhotra, S., et al. (2011). Brief Report: Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA). Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.