ABA and ESDM: Key Differences in Autism Early Intervention for Families in Sydney, Bondi Junction, and Mascot
Early intervention plays a critical role in supporting young children with autism. Two well-known approaches for autism therapy are Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we specialise in ESDM therapy, a proven and play-based intervention that helps children thrive. Many parents ask us about the differences between ABA and ESDM, so we’re here to explain these two effective approaches and how they can support your child’s development.
What Are ABA and ESDM?
ABA and ESDM are both evidence-based therapies for children with autism, but they differ in their methods and focus. Choosing the right approach for your child is essential to ensuring successful outcomes.
In Australia, the rate of autism diagnoses continues to rise, with 1 in 100 people identified as being on the spectrum. As a result, more families are seeking early intervention options in Sydney, Bondi Junction, and Mascot. Knowing the key differences between ABA and ESDM will help you make the best decision for your child.
What is ABA?
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) has been a cornerstone of autism treatment for decades. ABA is a structured, adult-led therapy designed to encourage positive behaviours and reduce challenging ones. It’s based on a system of rewards and clear goal-setting.
Key features of ABA include:
- Clear, measurable goals to track progress.
- Structured therapy sessions led by a therapist.
- Reinforcement strategies to encourage desired behaviours.
- Typically involves up to 40 hours of therapy per week.
ABA has a long history of success in improving outcomes for children with autism, including their communication, social, and learning skills.
What is ESDM?
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a play-based autism therapy developed for children aged 12-48 months. Recognised as a breakthrough by TIME Magazine, ESDM is designed specifically for young children and focuses on social, communication, and cognitive development through natural, engaging activities. At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we use ESDM to help children learn through play while working closely with families.
Key features of ESDM include:
- Child-led activities that follow the child’s interests.
- Natural reinforcement like praise and playtime instead of structured rewards.
- Play-based sessions that fit naturally into daily routines like play, mealtime, or transitions.
- Collaboration between parents and therapists, helping families implement strategies at home.
- Suitable for children as young as 6 months.
ESDM is a more flexible approach than ABA, integrating play into every learning opportunity.
How Are ABA and ESDM Similar?
Both ABA and ESDM are evidence-based interventions that aim to improve the developmental outcomes of children with autism. They share several key features:
- Early Childhood Focus: Both approaches are designed for young children, although ABA can be used across all ages, while ESDM focuses on early years.
- Individualised Plans: Each child receives a customised therapy plan tailored to their developmental needs.
- Data-Driven Progress: Both therapies rely on data to track progress and adjust goals as needed.
- Structured Learning Principles: Both use evidence-based techniques like prompting, shaping, and fading to teach skills effectively.
What Are the Key Differences Between ESDM and ABA?
While ABA and ESDM share some foundational elements, they differ in significant ways:
- Child-Led vs. Adult-Led: ESDM is child-led, meaning your child takes the lead in choosing activities. ABA, on the other hand, is more adult-directed, following a structured program.
- Natural Reinforcement vs. Structured Rewards: ESDM uses natural rewards like praise, toys, and playtime to reinforce positive behaviours, while ABA often uses more structured reinforcement strategies.
- Discrete Trial Training (DTT): ABA frequently uses DTT, a method involving repetitive tasks. ESDM incorporates DTT minimally and uses more varied, interactive teaching techniques.
- Joint Play Activities: ESDM encourages joint play between the therapist and child, whereas ABA may follow more pre-set activities.
- Multi-disciplinary Collaboration: In ESDM, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists, and other professionals work together to support the child’s development, ensuring a holistic approach.
Who Can Benefit from ABA and ESDM?
- ESDM: Best suited for children between 6 months and 5 years old, ESDM is ideal for very young children who benefit from play-based interventions.
- ABA: ABA can be used at any age, from early childhood to adulthood, and is particularly helpful for children who may require a highly structured learning environment.
Why We Use ESDM at OneOnOne Children’s Therapy
At our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics, we have chosen the Early Start Denver Model because it aligns with best practices in early intervention. The National Research Council recommends starting therapy as early as possible and involving parents in every step. ESDM follows these principles, making it the ideal choice for early autism therapy.
Key benefits of ESDM include:
- Early Intervention: ESDM starts as early as 6 months, offering critical support during the most important developmental stages.
- Family Involvement: Parents play an active role in therapy, ensuring progress happens both in and out of the therapy room.
- Natural Integration: ESDM strategies can be easily integrated into daily routines, helping children generalise skills across different settings.
- Ongoing Progress Tracking: ESDM therapists regularly assess your child’s progress and adjust goals to keep them on track for success.
How Can I Choose Between ABA and ESDM?
Both ABA and ESDM have strong evidence supporting their effectiveness. Your choice may depend on your child’s individual needs and preferences, as well as your family’s goals for therapy. At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we often combine ESDM with other therapies like Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy to ensure comprehensive support as your child prepares for school.
Learn More About ESDM and ABA in Sydney
If you’d like to learn more about Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) and how it compares to ABA, our team of Certified ESDM Therapists is here to help. We provide comprehensive autism therapy at our clinics in Bondi Junction and Mascot, serving families throughout Sydney.
Contact us today at (02) 8065 7837 or email us to book a consultation and learn more about how ESDM can support your child’s growth and development.
