Yes! ESDM is backed by extensive research and rooted in proven behavioral therapy methods. Its effectiveness has been demonstrated through randomized trials and multiple studies across different countries. Research consistently shows that ESDM helps children develop essential skills, making it a trusted and reliable early intervention approach.

ESDM therapy was designed primarily for toddlers and preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder or children in this age group with developmental challenges.

Both ESDM and ABA are evidence-based therapies that support children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but they take different approaches to learning and skill development.

ESDM is a child-led approach, giving children the freedom to make choices while learning through play and everyday interactions. It focuses on natural learning opportunities, making therapy fun, engaging, and embedded in social activities. ABA, on the other hand, is a structured approach that breaks down skills into smaller steps and uses reinforcement to encourage specific behaviors. It follows a more systematic method to teach and strengthen desired skills over time.

While both therapies are effective, they cater to different needs. ESDM is great for young children who learn best through play and social interactions, while ABA programs can be adapted for a wider age range and different needs. Some children benefit from a combination of both approaches to support their growth and development.

ESDM is designed for young children with autism or those at risk, and most kids respond well to this play-based approach. Most children make progress with ESDM, but the timeline varies. Some kids see changes quickly, while for others, it takes time and consistency. If we don’t notice improvements over time, we’ll reassess and adapt the approach to better fit your child’s needs. Every child is unique and their needs are different. The key is to stay proactive, adjust as needed, and continue working together to monitor and change our strategy.

This is a tool we use to track your child’s development and progress in our ESDM program. It covers:

• Communication skills - using words to express needs, socially interact and follow simple instructions
• Social skills - making eye contact, sharing attention, taking turns and engaging in joint attention
• Play skills - engaging in pretend play, using toys to express ideas and emotions, exploring toys, and participating in joint activties
• Motor skills - developing coordination, balance, and fine and gross motor skills
• Self-help skills - feeding, dressing, toileting, and using the bathroom
• Cognitive skills - understanding cause and effect, following directions, and problem solving

The checklist also includes specific skills and behaviors based on your child’s current abilities. We then use our assessment to guide the therapy goals and activities for your child.

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) was originally known as the ‘Play School Model’ when it was first developed in the 1980s. The model was later refined and expanded, incorporating principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), developmental psychology and relationship-based interventions, eventually becoming the ESDM in the early 2000s.

ESDM is a specialized intervention that integrates developmental psychology to tailor treatment goals and strategies based on each child's individual developmental stage. Therapy is carefully structured to create a balanced play dynamic, where both the child and their therapist take turns leading and following during activities.

Each child's therapy objectives are customized using the ESDM Curriculum Checklist, which evaluates key developmental areas such as expressive and receptive communication, play, social interactions, imitation, and motor skills. This checklist is reviewed every 12 weeks to consistently assess progress and update the program to support optimal growth.

ESDM applies evidence-based teaching strategies from applied behavior analysis (ABA), focusing on the ABC’s of learning, along with prompting, fading, and chaining techniques to teach new skills effectively. The approach also prioritizes relationship-building, embedding the child’s natural interests into activities to foster high motivation and engagement.

With an emphasis on fun and positive interactions, ESDM ensures learning is enjoyable. The therapy considers each child's attention and sensory needs, incorporating movement when necessary to enhance focus and participation. Progress is tracked in every session, with data collected, analyzed and graphed to make informed adjustments to the child’s program, ensuring continued success.