The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), is a comprehensive, evidence-based intervention approach for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This model combines elements of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with developmental and relationship-based approaches to promote social, cognitive, and communication skills. The ESDM is designed for children with ASD ranging from the age of 18 months to 48 months and focuses on play-based, naturalistic teaching strategies that incorporate learning into everyday activities and interactions.
At the heart of ESDM lies a deep understanding of typical child development, which guides the selection of developmentally appropriate goals and intervention strategies. By focusing on the whole child and their unique developmental trajectory, the ESDM addresses not only core ASD symptoms but also promotes overall development, helping children achieve meaningful progress in all areas of their lives.
The focus is on engaging the child in positive emotional experiences with another person (i.e. the therapist) to increase the value of social interactions and the child’s desire to engage in them.
Developmental skills are taught through play. We use joint activity routines (JARS) as the basis for learning. These routines involve objects and activities found in the child’s natural environment and are chosen by the child. Both the adult and child participate in the routine and build upon each other’s contributions.
We believe that learning can be enhanced when it occurs in natural, everyday situations. By weaving teaching into these situations and social interactions, we create a rich and dynamic learning environment. This allows for optimal learning opportunities to arise, providing a more meaningful and engaging experience for the learner. Through our approach, we aim to make learning a natural and enjoyable part of life.
Our focus is to replace unwanted behaviors with behaviors that are more functional, conventional, and socially appropriate. We believe that by identifying the underlying causes of unwanted behaviors, we can develop strategies that promote positive behaviors. This involves teaching alternative behaviors that are more effective and beneficial for the individual, while also addressing any underlying issues that may be contributing to the unwanted behaviors.
Parents will help formulate priorities for intervention as well as implement the teaching plan themselves throughout natural daily activities (mealtime, bathing, bedtime etc.). This creates more opportunities for learning for the child and consistent treatment.
My son benefited greatly from working with Darra. His confidence,... Read More
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1323 years ago
Darra is the best! Highly recommend.
Highly recommend!
Great place!! Highly recommend
Darra is absolutely fantastic!!
Whether you’re exploring services, have questions about a diagnosis, or just want to understand what support could look like for your child, we’re here to listen. Use the contact details below or send us a message through the form—our intake team will be in touch to help you take the right, next step.
