What is the Early Start Denver Model Assessment?
The assessment in the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a critical part of a child’s program. We use the assessment as the basis of the program that each child will follow for the next 10 weeks. Certified ESDM Therapists use the assessment to individualise the program. They build on the skills the child has already learned and develop the next set of skills that the child needs to acquire.
The Early Start Denver Model Curriculum Checklist
We use the Early Start Denver Model Curriculum Checklist during the assessment. This is a play-based assessment where the therapist provides play activities and engages with the child. The therapist follows the child’s interest and preference for toys. When the child approaches a toy, the therapist will play and engage with the child while scoring their abilities. The Early Start Denver Model Curriculum Checklist has 480 curriculum items across four levels.
Areas of Assessment in the Early Start Denver Model
We assess children in the Early Start Denver Model in the following areas:
- Receptive Language: Understanding what others say.
- Expressive Language: Using words and sentences to communicate.
- Imitation: Copying actions and words of others.
- Play: Engaging in play activities and using toys appropriately.
- Joint Attention: Sharing focus on an object or activity with another person.
- Social Skills: Interacting with others and understanding social cues.
- Cognition: Thinking skills, including problem-solving and understanding concepts.
- Fine Motor Skills: Using small muscles, like those in the hands, for tasks.
- Gross Motor Skills: Using large muscles for activities like running and jumping.
- Behavior: Managing emotions and behaviours in different situations.
- Personal Independence: Skills for daily living, such as dressing and feeding.
How Do We Choose Early Start Denver Model Goals?
The therapist creates the child’s first set of goals and objectives based on the assessment results. They choose goals starting from the point where the child needs more skills in each developmental area. Some children have goals starting in Level 1, while others start in Level 2 or Level 3. The therapist writes teaching steps for each goal, allowing them to monitor progress closely. Parents can see their child’s progress after each session. In the Early Start Denver Model, a child is considered to have passed a goal when they are using that skill 80% of the time and can demonstrate it on three consecutive occasions in at least two different settings.
About the Early Start Denver Model
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is an evidence-based behavioural early intervention program for young children with autism, specifically designed for children between the ages of 12-60 months. Over 30 years of research have gone into this groundbreaking intervention program. At our Bondi Junction clinic, we constantly strive to deliver the Early Start Denver Model at a high level of fidelity. We were one of the first small private intervention clinics in New South Wales to offer this evidence-based practice and are now 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 spaces for therapy – they are places 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 offer a holistic approach to pediatric 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. Call our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics at (02) 8065 7837 or email us. You can book a free 30-minute phone call with us to discuss how we can support your child’s unique journey.
We are a dedicated team of Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Certified ESDM Therapists, and Psychologists, serving families in Bondi Junction and Mascot, Sydney’s Eastern suburbs. 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.
