What is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)?
The Early Start Denver Model, or the ESDM, is an intervention for young children with autism. Parents look for the best intervention for their child. They spend long periods of time finding the best early intervention clinic for their child. They ask about the best ways to support their child’s development. Eventually, most parents ask about supporting their child’s development at preschool. Let’s look at how the Early Start Denver Model, or ESDM, can support children in the preschool or daycare.
Why is it important to use the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) in preschools?
The preschool environment is where children spend many days each week. This is where their peers are, and this is where they make friends. As the child completes the ESDM program, we see improvements in:
- play skills
- cognition
- imitation
- joint attention
- social skills
- communication
We also see a decrease in the symptoms of autism as a child progresses through the ESDM program. It is one thing to see these skills in a very nicely controlled clinic environment. However, the preschool environment is the real world and that is where we really want each child to use their skills. Generalisation between environments and people is a key part of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). This means that your child consistently uses all skills that he learns in meow then one place, with more than one person, and across multiple days.
To achieve this generalisation, it is best if a child is supported by the ESDM in the preschool environment. This means that:
- a certified ESDM therapist works with the child in the preschool
- the preschool staff receive some training in ESDM to support a child in preschool
- a certified ESDM therapist coaches a staff member with a child in the preschool
As the ESDM is a naturalistic intervention, it fits well with mainstream preschools. Play-based learning, the development of reciprocal relationships and interactions, the development of communication, and following the child interests and choices also optimise the child’s interest and motivation.
What research supports the use of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Therapy in preschools?
Australia leads the research into the use of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) in preschool environments. The research is in Victoria and New South Wales. The results from both states were positive. The projects showed superior outcomes in language and cognitive functioning. A research project in Israel showed developmental and adaptive improvements in the preschool setting.
Who delivers the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) in preschools?
Our Certified ESDM therapists deliver the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). The program runs on 10-week blocks. The child’s goal are reviewed and a new goals are set for the next 10 week period.
Learn more about the ESDM
- What happens in an ESDM assessment?
- What does an ESDM session look like?
- See how Estelle progressed in the ESDM
- Progress in the ESDM
- Our Intensive ESDM Program
How do I find out more about the ESDM?
OneOnOne Children’s Therapy offers the ESDM. We were one of the first small private intervention clinics in New South Wales to offer this evidence based practice. In our Sydney clinic, our certified ESDM therapists constantly strive to deliver the Early Start Denver Model at the highest levels of fidelity so we can improve children’s lives. We are the largest ESDM clinic in new South Wales.
We’re here to support you
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow and thrive.
Our clinics are not just a space for therapy – it’s a place where children can discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential.
By combining innovative therapy techniques with a stimulating and supportive environment, we’re proud to offer a holistic approach to paediatric therapy and early intervention that addresses the unique needs of each child we support.
Reach out for support
If you’re concerned about your child’s development or want to learn more about how the ESDM can help your child, OneOnOne Children’s Therapy is here to help. If you want to learn more about when to start daycare for your child, we have this blog that discusses daycare if your child has a communication delay.
Call our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics on (02) 80657837 or email. You can book a free 30 minute phone call with us to discuss how we can support your child’s unique journey
