Autism's New Guidelines

I was happy to see in the newspaper and on Larry King Live last night that new guidelines for pediatricians have been set. It will now be necessary for pediatricians to check each child for Autism before they turn two. They will now need to be check at their 18 month and 24 month check ups. I think this is a good step in the right direction, however I still think children need to be evaluated before they are 18 months old, as some kids show signs even earlier. My daughter Alli, who is Autistic was diagnosed way to late at the age of 3 1/2. I would have to agree that 7 years ago doctors had no idea what to look for and when to diagnose and refer out to a specialist, even when we asked questions like "does Alli have Autism"? The key to helping all kids on the spectrum is to start early intervention, so the sooner we can diagnose Autism the greater chance these wonderful kids have to lead a "normal" life.