Early developmental differences—such as limited eye contact, delayed speech, or reduced response to name—often leave parents uncertain about what they are observing. Many families struggle to understand whether these signs reflect normal variation or indicate a deeper developmental concern. Dr. Rajeshwari Ganesh, a Developmental Pediatrician in Mumbai, supports families through this period of uncertainty by offering structured evaluation and clear clinical guidance.

Indian research and public health data suggest that approximately 1 in 100 children may be affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder, with a large proportion identified only after the most sensitive early developmental years have passed. This delay can limit the impact of timely support. Autism testing in Mumbai, when conducted early and comprehensively, helps accurately understand a child’s developmental profile—guiding meaningful intervention during the window when the brain is most responsive to change.

The goal of early autism assessment is not to define a child by a diagnosis, but to enable informed support that strengthens communication, learning, adaptive skills, and long-term independence.

What Is Autism and Why Early Testing Matters

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, attention, play skills, and behavior. Autism exists on a spectrum, meaning every child presents differently—some have mild traits, while others need significant support.

The brain is most adaptable (high neuroplasticity) between 0–2 years of age. This is why early autism screening can dramatically reduce the severity of challenges later in childhood. Early identification allows families to begin therapy, parent training, and communication support at the most effective time.

Autism in India – The Current Reality

• - Autism prevalence in India is increasing due to better awareness
• - Many children are still diagnosed after 4–5 years, losing early-intervention benefits
• - Urban centers like Mumbai now follow international testing standards
• - Early diagnosis improves school readiness, communication, and independence

This makes Autism Testing in Mumbai an essential step when parents notice delays in speech, social engagement, or play.

How Testing for Autism Is Done – A Clinical Process

Testing for autism is not a blood test or scan. It is a clinical diagnosis made using structured observations, standardized tools, and information from parents and teachers.

The assessment includes:

• - Direct interaction and play-based observation
• - Evaluating attention, communication, imitation, and social response
• - Parent questionnaires and detailed developmental history
• - Inputs from school teachers, when applicable

All findings are combined to arrive at a clear diagnosis within the autism spectrum.

Autism Tests Conducted at Dr. Rajeshwari Ganesh’s Clinic

At Pinnacle Child Development Clinic, internationally accepted diagnostic tools are used:

• ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) – Gold standard diagnostic tool
• CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale)
• ISA (Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism) – often required for schools
• PEP (Psycho Educational Profile)
• Developmental and neurodevelopmental assessments
• Screening for borderline, mild, moderate, or severe autism

Children below 2 years with concerns are classified as “at risk for autism” and followed closely, with formal testing done at age two.

Borderline Autism, Mild, Moderate & Severe – What Do They Mean?

Autism is not “all or nothing.” Some children show borderline or mild features and may not fulfill all diagnostic criteria initially.

• - Borderline / Mild Autism – Often respond extremely well to therapy
• - Moderate Autism – Require structured intervention and communication training
• - Severe Autism – Need intensive therapy and daily skill-building

Therapy planning depends entirely on test scores and clinical observations, not assumptions.

Autism vs ADHD – A Common Parent Confusion

Parents often ask: “My child is hyperactive—is it autism or ADHD?”

• - Autism affects social communication and interaction
• - ADHD affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels
• - Some children may have both conditions

Careful clinical testing differentiates between the two and ensures the right therapy approach.

Parent Training & Early Intervention – The Real Game Changer

Therapy alone for 1–2 hours a week is not enough. What truly determines outcome is daily communication practice at home.

At the clinic, strong focus is placed on:

• - Parent empowerment and training
• - Teaching parents how to play, talk, and interact effectively
• - Early Intervention programs loosely based on Project ImPACT
• - Online training options for NRIs and out-of-city parents

Children improve best when therapy continues every day at home, not just inside a clinic.

Prognosis – What Is the Future for a Child with Autism?

A child’s future depends largely on communication ability, not just literacy or IQ.

• - Speech and communication skills determine school inclusion
• - Verbal or effective communicators adapt better socially
• - Early training improves independence and emotional regulation

With early diagnosis and consistent intervention, many children lead functional, independent lives.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Parent Questions

At what age can autism be diagnosed?

Anwer: Standardized testing is reliable from 2 years onwards, though clinical risk assessment can begin earlier.

Q. Is too much screen time the cause of autism?

Anwer: No. Autism is neurodevelopmental, not caused by TV or parenting style.

Can autism improve with treatment?

Anwer: Yes. Early intervention significantly improves communication, learning, and behavior.

Q. Are supplements like Omega-3 helpful?

Anwer: They may support health but are not evidence-based treatments for autism.

Q. Can children with autism attend regular schools?

Anwer: Yes, especially when diagnosed early and supported with therapy and trained educators.

What Makes Our Clinic Special

At Pinnacle Child Development Clinic, the focus goes beyond diagnosis—we aim to understand the child as a whole and guide the family at every step. Led by Dr. Rajeshwari Ganesh, the clinic offers international-standard developmental assessments combined with practical, family-centric care tailored to Indian settings.

What truly sets our clinic apart:

• - Gold-standard autism diagnostics in one place – Including ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), CARS, ISA, PEP, and comprehensive developmental profiles.
• - Play-based, child-friendly assessments – Children are evaluated through natural interactions and structured play, not forced testing.
• - Strong emphasis on parent empowerment – Parents are actively trained to support communication, play, and behavior at home—not just during therapy hours.
• - Early identification of at-risk infants – Specialized surveillance for high-risk and preterm NICU babies, helping reduce the severity of future developmental disorders.
• - Clear guidance, no panic – Families receive honest, realistic explanations and step-by-step intervention plans.
• - Support for NRIs & out-of-city families – Online consultations, assessments, and parent-training options are available.
• - Continuity of care – Regular monitoring and progress reviews ensure therapy plans evolve with the child’s needs.

Our clinic believes that early understanding + daily family involvement = better long-term outcomes. This philosophy is why many families trust Pinnacle Child Development Clinic for autism testing and developmental guidance.