Understanding the Basics of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
Are you currently navigating strategies regarding your child’s Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis? At The Puzzle Place, we know the journey can be challenging but also one filled with love, growth, and amazing breakthroughs. Among the therapeutic approaches available, one that stands out is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM).
Developed by Drs. Sally Rogers and Geraldine Dawson, ESDM is an evidence-based therapy designed for infants and preschoolers with ASD that enhances language, cognitive, and social skills using a natural, play-based approach.
What is the Early Start Denver Model?
At its core, ESDM is an early intervention therapy that merges applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques with developmental and relationship-based approaches. In other words, it fuses the Denver Model, an affective and developmentally based intervention for children (ages 2 to 5) with ASD, with the Stern model of teaching interactions for infant interpersonal development and pivotal response training (PRT).
ESDM focuses on children aged 12 to 48 months, a critical period for brain development. It aims to mitigate ASD and support developmental milestones. But unlike traditional ABA, which can be highly structured, this approach is delivered within the context of play and daily routines, making interactions enjoyable and meaningful for your child.
The Philosophy Behind ESDM
The philosophy of ESDM is rooted in the belief that all children on the Autism spectrum can learn and grow when given intervention tailored to their individual needs and strengths. It emphasizes the importance of integrating therapy into everyday activities, maximizing learning opportunities in a child’s natural environment. ESDM seeks to build the foundation for successful communication, social interactions, and learning by focusing on positive relationships and interactive play.
How Does ESDM Work?
ESDM therapists work closely with families to develop a personalized therapy plan for each child. Goals often include furthering language development, social skills, cognitive abilities, and fine and gross motor skills. Therapy sessions are highly engaging, involving fun and educational activities, designed to promote learning through play.
Examples of ESDM therapy sessions for children with ASD:
- Structured Play Sessions
- Engage in interactive play using the child’s interests to develop social interaction and communication skills.
- Naturalistic Teaching Opportunities
- Use everyday routines (like snack time) to work on communication and other developmental skills.
- Personalized Curriculum
- Tailor activities to the child’s needs, focusing on non-verbal communication or fine motor skills.
- Group Sessions with Peers
- Facilitate structured play with peers to improve social skills, such as sharing and turn-taking.
- Transition Planning
- Prepare the child for transitions to preschool or other settings with activities that mimic future routines.
One of the key components of ESDM is its focus on the dyadic relationship between the child and the adult, whether that be the parent, caregiver, or therapist. This approach fosters an environment in which children feel understood, supported, and encouraged to explore and interact with the world around them.
What Evidence Supports ESDM?
A growing body of research underscores the effectiveness of ESDM in improving outcomes for young children with ASD. Studies, like the controlled trial published in the journal Pediatrics by Dawson et al. (2010), have shown that children who participate in ESDM significantly improve IQ, language abilities, and adaptive behavior in comparison to those receiving other forms of therapy. Moreover, ESDM has been recognized for its potential to reduce the severity of ASD symptoms over time.
How Can You Bring ESDM to Your Family?
For families seeking to embark on the ESDM therapeutic journey, the first step is to engage a qualified therapist trained in the model. Collaboration between therapists and families ensures that strategies are consistently applied across all settings, from the therapy center to the home.
At The Puzzle Place, located in the heart of New Jersey, we specialize in ABA therapy for children with ASD. We incorporate ESDM principles to offer a holistic, child-centered, and playful approach to intensive therapy. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to working alongside families, empowering them to support their child’s growth and development every step of the way.
If you believe your child could benefit from ESDM or want to learn more about our services, please reach out to us at 732-994-7899 or contact us here. Together, we unlock the potential within each child, piece by piece.
