Which ages are commonly targeted for ASQ-based developmental screenings, and what is the purpose?

• A. Commonly around 6, 12, and 24 months; to identify language disorders.
• B. Commonly around 3, 9, and 15 months; to diagnose autism.
• C. Commonly around 9, 18, and 30 months; to identify children at risk for developmental delays.
• D. Commonly at birth; to assess school readiness.

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is how ASQ-based screenings are timed and what they aim to achieve. The Ages & Stages Questionnaires are a parent-completed screening tool used during routine well-child visits to flag children who may be at risk for developmental delays. They assess multiple domains—communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem solving, and personal-social skills—and are designed to identify potential concerns, not to provide a diagnosis.

These screenings are commonly done around 9, 18, and 30 months because these points fall within important periods of rapid development across many areas and fit typical pediatric visit schedules. If a child scores in a range suggestive of risk, they are referred for a more comprehensive evaluation and, if needed, early intervention services. The purpose is early identification and referral, not diagnosing autism or language disorders, and it isn’t used at birth to assess school readiness.