CARS-2: Virtual Autism Evaluation at Bright Starts Pediatrics
Clarity and Connection — From the Comfort of Home
At Bright Starts Pediatrics, we know that seeking an autism evaluation can feel overwhelming — especially when balancing busy schedules or limited access to in-person services. That’s why we offer the CARS-2 (Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition) as part of our virtual autism diagnostic process.
The CARS-2 allows our trained clinicians to evaluate behaviors, communication patterns, and social responses remotely, combining parent interviews, developmental history, and direct observation to help determine whether autism may be present.
What Is the CARS-2?
The CARS-2 is a research-validated diagnostic rating scale designed to identify autism characteristics and determine symptom severity in children and adolescents ages 2 and older.
It is based on clinician observation and caregiver input, focusing on how an individual:
Interacts and communicates
Responds to people, sounds, and surroundings
Demonstrates emotional understanding and play
Shows flexibility, imitation, and adaptation
Each item is scored on a scale, creating a detailed behavioral profile that helps clinicians differentiate autism from other developmental or behavioral challenges.
Why We Use the CARS-2 for Virtual Testing
The CARS-2 is one of the few validated tools that can be effectively administered via telehealth, making it ideal for families who:
Live in rural or underserved areas
Need flexibility due to travel, work, or caregiving demands
Prefer completing portions of the evaluation from home
Using secure video technology, parents and clinicians work together in real time to review developmental history, discuss behavioral examples, and — when possible — observe the child in natural home settings.
This approach provides meaningful, real-world insight while maintaining professional accuracy and care.
What to Expect During a Virtual CARS-2 Evaluation
Pre-Visit Intake: You’ll complete background forms about developmental milestones, social communication, and daily routines.
Telehealth Session: A Bright Starts clinician meets with you virtually to review your child’s history and observe behavior in natural home interactions.
Clinician Scoring and Interpretation: The clinician uses structured CARS-2 criteria to rate observed and reported behaviors.Prefer completing portions of the evaluation from home
Feedback Session: You’ll receive a summary of findings, professional recommendations, and guidance for next steps or further testing if needed.
Benefits of the CARS-2 Virtual Evaluation
Conducted from your home environment, where your child feels most comfortable
Supported by clinical observation and parent collaboration
Helps guide next steps for diagnosis, intervention, or school support
Suitable for children, teens, and adults with varying communication abilities
CARS-2 vs. In-Person ADOS-2
Both tools help identify autism, but they serve different settings:
ADOS-2 – Gold standard for in-person, play-based evaluations
Supported by clinical observation and parent collaboration
At Bright Starts Pediatrics, we select the most appropriate tool — or combination — to ensure accurate, individualized results, no matter where you are.
Compassionate, Accessible Care — Wherever You Are
We designed our virtual diagnostic process to make high-quality autism evaluation accessible, comfortable, and personal.
Whether you’re taking the first step toward a diagnosis or seeking a second opinion, our goal is to bring clarity and support — with the same compassion and professionalism that define all of our services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CARS-2?
The CARS-2 (Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition) is a research-validated tool used to assess characteristics of autism across communication, behavior, and social interaction.
It helps clinicians identify whether autism traits are present and, if so, at what level of intensity.
Can the CARS-2 be done virtually?
Yes. The CARS-2 can be effectively administered through secure telehealth sessions.
Our clinicians at Bright Starts Pediatrics use video conferencing to observe your child’s natural behavior, review developmental history, and gather caregiver insights — all from the comfort of home.
Is virtual autism testing accurate?
When conducted by experienced, trained clinicians, virtual CARS-2 evaluations are reliable and clinically valid.
Because observations occur in a familiar setting, many children show their most natural communication and behavior patterns — adding valuable context to the assessment.
What ages are eligible for a CARS-2 evaluation?
The CARS-2 can be used with children as young as two years old, as well as teens and adults.
Different versions of the scale allow us to tailor the evaluation to each person’s age and communication level.
What happens during a virtual CARS-2 appointment?
Pre-Visit Forms: Parents or caregivers complete developmental and behavioral questionnaires.
Telehealth Observation: A clinician meets with you virtually, observes interactions, and asks structured questions.
Clinician Scoring: Using CARS-2 criteria, the clinician rates observed and reported behaviors.
Feedback & Report: You receive results, a detailed interpretation, and recommendations for next steps.
Do I need special equipment or preparation?
You’ll need a quiet space, a device with a camera, and a stable internet connection.
Have a few toys, books, or activities your child enjoys nearby. You’ll receive guidance before your appointment to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Does the CARS-2 replace in-person testing like the ADOS-2?
Not necessarily. The CARS-2 is excellent for virtual or initial evaluations, while the ADOS-2 remains the gold standard for in-person assessments.
Your clinician will recommend the best option — or sometimes both — to ensure the most accurate and comprehensive results.
How will I receive results and recommendations?
After the evaluation, your clinician will schedule a virtual feedback session to discuss results, answer questions, and provide clear next steps — including referrals, therapy recommendations, and school or community supports.
Why choose Bright Starts Pediatrics for virtual autism testing?
Because we bring expertise and empathy together.
Our clinicians are trained in both evidence-based assessment and neurodiversity-affirming care, ensuring that every family feels seen, respected, and supported — wherever they are.
Is the CARS-2 Evaluation Right for Your Child?
If you’re noticing patterns in your child’s social interactions, communication, or daily routines, the CARS-2 can help bring clarity. This tool offers a structured, neuro-affirming way to understand your child’s strengths and challenges without pressure or judgment. If your family is in Colorado Springs and exploring an autism evaluation, we’re here to guide you with compassion and clear next steps.
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