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.
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) 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.
How do I find out more about the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) in preschools?
OneOnOne Children’s Therapy is located in Bondi Junction in Sydney. We train our team of Certified ESDM therapists to the highest levels of fidelity so we can improve children’s lives. To find out more about the Early Start Denver Model, call our clinic on (02) 80657837 or email us.
