Dr. Hayward uses an FDA-approved device to assess your toddler for autism quickly and with no uncomfortable, formal tests. The device watches your child’s gaze as they watch a social video. The device allows Dr. Hayward and parents to see if your child pays attention to social cues in the videos. The test takes clinical observation of your child’s social skills 120 times per second. Eye-tracking technology allows for the earliest possible diagnosis of autism.

Eye-tracking testing is available for 16-month to 30-month-olds. Your entire appointment takes about 2 hours and you know the same day if your child has autism. Typical neuropsychological testing takes up to 5 times more time to complete. That makes eye tracking quicker, more cost effective for families, and a better fit for families who want to pursue early intervention if needed. There is no need for a referral from your child’s pediatrician. You do not need to “wait and see” anymore.

The eye tracker is an assessment tool like those used with older children. It helps the clinician to collect data and better identify if autism is present. Dr. Hayward also uses other tools that help parents understand better their child’s development in problem-solving, communication, social-emotional skills, motor skills, and adaptive skills. A toddler evaluation includes a comprehensive parent interview about any possible concerns you have, rating scales that helps us know how your child is functioning daily, and the eye-tracking test. You do testing and get results the same day.