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Autism Screenings: Expert Evaluation to Support Developmental Milestones and Family Wellness

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing challenges in social interaction and communication.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing challenges in social interaction and communication. Because autism is a “spectrum,” symptoms and abilities can vary significantly from one individual to another. For many families, identifying these patterns early is the most critical step in accessing the support and resources needed for a child to thrive. With a professional screening and a comprehensive follow-up plan, parents can gain the clarity necessary to foster their child’s unique strengths and manage developmental hurdles.

At Premium Healthcare, we provide specialized autism screenings and developmental evaluations in Miami and South Florida. Our compassionate team of providers works closely with families to observe developmental milestones, identify early signs of neurodiversity, and create a roadmap for long-term growth and social success.

What Is an Autism Screening?

An autism screening is a preventive healthcare tool used to determine if a child is hitting developmental milestones or if they show signs that require further evaluation. It is not a final diagnosis but a vital “first look” that helps healthcare providers decide if a more in-depth diagnostic assessment is necessary.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children receive specific screenings for autism at their 18- and 24-month well-child visits. Early identification is widely recognized as the gold standard for improving language development, social skills, and adaptive behaviors through early intervention services.

Our goal at Premium Healthcare is to provide families with a supportive environment where questions are answered and developmental progress is monitored with precision and care.

Symptoms and Early Signs of Autism

Signs of autism often appear in early childhood, typically before age three. While every child develops at their own pace, certain “red flags” may indicate the need for a formal screening:

  • Little or no big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months
  • Limited or no eye contact with caregivers or peers
  • No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or facial expressions by nine months
  • Delay in babbling or using gestures (pointing, waving) by 12 months
  • Not responding to their name when called
  • Repeating words or phrases out of context (echolalia)
  • Intense interest in specific objects or highly repetitive play
  • Unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel

When developmental milestones are missed or social communication seems delayed, a professional screening is the best way to ensure your child receives the attention they deserve.

Risk Factors

Research indicates that a combination of genetic and environmental influences likely contributes to the development of autism. Factors that may increase the likelihood include:

  • Family History: Having a sibling or close relative with ASD.
  • Parental Age: Children born to older parents may have a higher risk.
  • Genetic Conditions: Certain chromosomal conditions, such as Fragile X syndrome.
  • Birth Factors: Extremely preterm birth or very low birth weight.

At Premium Healthcare, we evaluate these factors as part of a whole-child assessment, ensuring we understand the biological and environmental context of your child’s development.

How Autism Screenings Are Conducted

The screening process is designed to be comfortable for both the child and the parent. At Premium Healthcare, our thorough process includes:

  • Developmental Questionnaires: Utilizing validated tools like the M-CHAT-R to gather information about your child’s behavior and social patterns.
  • Clinical Observation: Watching how the child interacts, plays, and communicates during the visit.
  • Review of Milestones: Comparing the child’s current abilities against standard developmental timelines.
  • Parental Consultation: Discussing concerns regarding sleep, sensory sensitivities, or repetitive behaviors.
  • Coordination of Care: Referring families to specialists for comprehensive diagnostic evaluations (such as ADOS-2) when the screening indicates a need.

A professional screening provides the data needed to create a targeted support plan that prioritizes the child’s developmental health.

Support and Intervention Options

If a screening suggests that a child is on the spectrum, Premium Healthcare assists families in navigating the next steps. Management and support may include:

Early Intervention Services

  • Referral to Speech and Language Therapy to improve communication.
  • Occupational Therapy to assist with sensory processing and fine motor skills.
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or similar developmental therapies.

Educational Support

  • Guidance on navigating school-based support systems and Individualized Education Programs (IEP).
  • Recommendations for social skills groups to foster peer interaction.

Family Resources and Wellness

  • Counseling and support for parents and siblings to build a strong home environment.
  • Nutritional guidance to manage common gastrointestinal or dietary sensitivities associated with ASD.

Why Choose Premium Healthcare for Autism Screenings?

  • Early Childhood Expertise: Dedicated providers trained in identifying subtle developmental differences.
  • Bilingual Support: Our English and Spanish-speaking team ensures clear communication for all Miami families.
  • Comprehensive Care Coordination: Seamless referrals to neurologists, therapists, and behavioral specialists.
  • Family-Centered Approach: We prioritize the emotional well-being of the family throughout the screening process.
  • Convenient Miami Locations: Accessible care for busy families across South Florida.

At Premium Healthcare, we believe that every child has a unique path to success. By identifying needs early, we empower parents with the knowledge and resources to support their child’s lifelong journey.

Take the Next Step Toward Developmental Clarity

If you have concerns about your child’s development or social communication, don’t wait to find answers. Early screening is the key to unlocking the right support.

📞 Call (305) 265-4441 or visit premiumhealthcare.com to schedule your child’s autism screening today.

Premium Healthcare – Supporting Children’s Development With Precision, Compassion, and Comprehensive Care.

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