Exploring the Success Rates of ESDM Therapy for Children with Autism
For children attending our clinics in Sydney, we incorporate the Early Start Denver Model as the foundation of each child’s intervention plan. The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a play-based therapy designed to help young children with autism learn essential skills and reduce autism symptoms. Created by Professor Sally Rogers and colleagues at the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California, this approach is widely recognised for its effectiveness. Let’s delve into how ESDM therapy has proven successful for children with autism, supported by research findings.
Understanding ESDM
ESDM is a therapy that uses play and structured activities to teach children with autism skills like communication, thinking, and social interaction. By combining methods from Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and developmental science, ESDM creates a nurturing environment where children can grow and learn.
Research on ESDM Success
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Significant Developmental Improvements
A study published in Pediatrics in 2010 followed 48 young children with autism. Half received ESDM therapy, while the others had standard community care. After two years, the ESDM group showed notable improvements:
- IQ: Children in the ESDM group increased their IQ scores by an average of 17.6 points, compared to 7 points in the control group.
- Language: They made better progress in understanding and using language.
- Adaptive Skills: These children also improved in everyday tasks and social behaviour.
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Normalisation of Brain Activity
In a study from the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry in 2012, researchers used EEG to study brain activity in children after ESDM therapy. They found that:
- Brain Patterns: Children showed brain activity similar to typical children when responding to social cues like faces and toys.
- Improved Social Skills: This suggests ESDM helps improve how children process social information.
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Long-Term Benefits
Research published in Autism Research in 2017 looked at children who continued ESDM therapy over several years. They found that:
- Maintained Gains: Children maintained their progress in IQ, language, and daily tasks.
- Continued Improvement: They also continued to get better at social skills and daily living activities.
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Parent Involvement and Satisfaction
ESDM involves training parents to use these techniques at home, which studies show can be very effective:
- Parent Training: Parents who learned ESDM techniques felt more confident helping their child learn and grow.
- High Satisfaction: Many parents reported significant improvements in their child’s behaviour and communication skills.
What This Means for Families
These studies emphasise the importance of initiating therapies like the Early Start Denver Model at an early stage. They demonstrate that with the right support, children with autism can achieve significant gains in various areas. By selecting ESDM, parents can enhance their children’s opportunities to develop essential skills and thrive.
Conclusion
ESDM therapy is a proven way to help young children with autism reach their full potential. The research consistently shows that it leads to improvements in IQ, language, social skills, and daily living tasks. At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we’re dedicated to providing evidence-based interventions like ESDM to support your child’s development.
We’re Here to Support You
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we are committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based interventions like the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) to support the development of each child with autism.
We are a team of Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Certified ESDM Therapists and Feeding Therapists who believe in a holistic approach to every child. Our multi-disciplinary approach using a child led autism therapy brings out each child’s potential.
Reach Out for Support
To discover more about how ESDM therapy can benefit your child, reach out to OneOnOne Children’s Therapy. Our Sydney clinics are in Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics at (02) 80657837 or email us. Book a free 30-minute phone call to discuss your child’s needs and discover how we can support their unique journey.
Together, we can help your child develop the skills they need to thrive and ensure your family enjoys a balanced and fulfilling life.
We are a dedicated team of Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Certified ESDM Therapists, and Psychologists, serving families across Sydney. Our clinics are tailored to provide exceptional intervention for children with autism, developmental delays, disabilities, and learning difficulties, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support.
