Early Start Denver Model

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a behavioral therapy for children with autism between the ages of 12-48 months. It is based on the methods of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Parents and therapists use play to build positive and fun relationships. Through play and joint activities, the child is encouraged to boost language, social and cognitive skills.

Based on understanding of normal toddler learning and development
Focused on building positive relationships
Teaching occurs during natural play and everyday activities
Uses play to encourage interaction and communication
ESDM therapy can be used in many settings, including at home, at a clinic, or in school. Therapy is provided in both group settings and one-on-one.

It has been found to be effective for children with a wide range of learning styles and abilities. ESDM can help children make progress in their social skills, language skills, and cognitive skills. Children who have significant learning challenges can benefit just as much as those without learning challenges.

Parent involvement is a key part of the ESDM program. Therapists should explain and model the strategies they use so that families can practice them at home.  Over a dozen studies have demonstrated the benefits of ESDM as an early intervention for autism among children as young as 18 months. These studies included children across a wide range of learning abilities.

Many of these studies looked at ESDM delivered by trained therapists in one-on-one sessions with the child. One looked at ESDM delivered to groups of children in childcare. Others looked at the benefits of training parents to deliver ESDM therapy at home.

Benefits include improved learning and language abilities and adaptive behavior and reduced symptoms of autism. Research using brain scans suggests that ESDM improves brain activity associated with social and communication skills.