The Mass Act Early campaign--Considering Culture in Autism Screening (CCIA)

Conducting screening for children suspecting of having autism spectrum disorders (ASD) from culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) backgrounds can be challenging for families and staff, not only due to language differences, but because of differing cultural expectations about child development and understanding of ASD and interventions. The CCIA Screening Curriculum includes two case-based presentation modules, a facilitator guide, curriculum handouts, and video interviews with families from four cultures (Chinese, Haitian, Hispanic, and Vietnamese). Learning objectives include: (1) Identify the steps for eliciting concerns and conducting developmental surveillance and screening with CLD families; (2) Know how to discuss the outcomes of developmental and/or autism screening with CLD families, and (3) Understand cultural and linguistic considerations when discussing developmental delays and autism with CLD families. This resource focuses on four distinct cultural groups. When using this resource in UCEDD curricula and training activities, it should be emphasized that the case studies are not representative of all individuals and families from these cultural groups.