At what age can ASD be reliably diagnosed according to ASHA guidelines?

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) guidelines indicate that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can typically be reliably diagnosed around 24 months of age. At this age, a comprehensive assessment that includes the child's communication abilities, social interactions, and repetitive behaviors can provide a clearer picture of their development and any potential concerns.

Research and clinical experience suggest that early signs of ASD can be observed before 24 months, but a reliable diagnosis often requires more robust evidence of the condition, which is usually evident by this age. At 24 months, many children exhibit the specific behaviors and symptoms associated with ASD that allow for a more definitive evaluation and diagnosis, making it critical for early intervention and support to be implemented as soon as possible following diagnosis.