The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a behavioral therapy based on methods used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Founded on the Denver Model, which is used to assist older autistic children, ESDM is an early intervention program for children aged 12 months to 4 years.
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Understanding the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
Toddlers learn and grow through play and daily activities, which form the foundation of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). This approach aims to build communication, social, and cognitive skills by fostering a positive, fun connection between the child and the therapist or parent.
ESDM can be applied in various settings, such as a therapist’s office, at school, or at home, and it is beneficial for children of all abilities.
The ESDM assessment involves observing the child and gathering input from parents. This helps identify the child’s strengths and areas for support, particularly in communication, socialization, and self-sufficiency.
Based on this assessment, individualized goals are set, and progress is reviewed every 12 weeks using the ESDM Curriculum Checklist to ensure the objectives are being met.
Is ESDM efficient?
The model for ESDM is founded on the evidence from a number of random clinical trials which showed it to be one of the most useful autism behavior interventions.
The Early Start Denver Model is thought to be based on more than 12 studies of children with a range of developmental abilities, working with therapists and professionals in different settings.
A study compared two groups of children aged 18 to 30 months, with one group receiving ESDM therapy for two years and the other receiving standard treatments. After two years, the ESDM group showed a significant increase in IQ, averaging a 17.6-point gain, along with continued progress in social and practical skills.
In contrast, the other group saw only a seven-point IQ increase and more delays in adaptive behavior. More children in the ESDM group experienced changes in diagnosis from autism to Pervasive Development Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).
These results highlight the importance of early autism detection and intervention.
Studies on ESDM have shown that young children with signs of autism who received 20 hours of instruction improved in language and social skills, regardless of the severity of their learning challenges.
On top of that, ESDM has been found to enhance brain function related to social and communication skills.
While the overall research supports ESDM’s effectiveness, the statistical strength of the findings is somewhat limited. However, a key benefit of the program is its flexibility, as it can be applied in various settings, making it accessible for parents and caregivers.
Who offers Early Start Denver Model services?
Individuals who offer ESDM services include:
- psychologists,
- developmental pediatricians,
- behavioral specialists,
- occupational therapists,
- speech/language pathologists,
- early intervention specialists.
Sally Rogers now applies the treatment in preschools, where children with ASD receive about 20 hours of support each week over a two-year period.
UC Davis Health MIND Institute offers training for professionals and teaches others to provide training for therapists, other providers, and parents.
Implementing ESDM at home
It’s crucial for parents to be actively involved in their child’s therapy, selecting meaningful objectives and learning strategies from trained providers.
As parents become familiar with the techniques, they can apply the program at home, complementing any outside support the child receives. This is especially important in situations where staying at home is more common.
Being informed about ESDM is essential for asking the right questions when choosing a therapist and ensuring that any caregiver working with your child is properly trained.
Here are some important questions to consider when looking for an ESDM therapist:
- Who will be working with my child?
- What training will be provided to parents?
- Where are therapy sessions held?
- How are program goals determined?
- Are you trained to provide ESDM therapy?
- Can parents participate in therapy sessions?
- Will sessions be one-on-one or in a group?
- How do you handle challenging behavior?
- How is progress measured?
- What type of progress should we expect?
If a parent has concerns about their child’s development, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare provider to rule out any developmental issues as early as possible.
If a diagnosis of autism is made, seeking early intervention, whether through ESDM or another approach, is recommended.
Empowering your child’s development
Choosing the right approach for your child’s development is a significant decision that can shape their future progress and well-being. By staying informed and involved, and by asking the right questions, you can ensure that your child receives the most effective support tailored to their needs.
Remember, early intervention and active participation can make a world of difference in helping your child thrive and reach their full potential.
FAQs
Q: What does the Early Start Denver Model focus on?
A: The Early Start Denver Model focuses on enhancing communication, social, and cognitive skills in young children through play and everyday activities. It aims to build positive relationships between the child and caregiver or therapist.
Q: What are the principles of the Early Start Denver Model?
A: The principles of the Early Start Denver Model include using play-based and naturalistic interventions to support learning, fostering positive interactions, and tailoring goals to each child’s individual needs. It emphasizes collaboration between parents and therapists.
Q: What is an example of the Early Start Denver Model?
A: An example of the Early Start Denver Model is providing 20 hours of weekly therapy sessions in a preschool setting, where children engage in structured play and daily routines that support their development. This approach helps improve skills in communication and social interactions.
Q: How is the Early Start Denver Model used for autism?
A: The Early Start Denver Model is used for autism by providing targeted interventions that address communication, social skills, and cognitive development through engaging and individualized activities. It integrates therapy into daily routines and interactions to maximize learning opportunities.
Q: What is the ESDM assessment?
A: The ESDM assessment involves observing the child and gathering input from parents to evaluate communication, socialization, motor skills, and other developmental areas. This assessment helps set personalized goals and track progress throughout the therapy.
References
Dawson, G., Rogers, S., Munson, J., Smith, M., Winter, J., Greenson, J., … & Varley, J. (2010). Randomized, controlled trial of an intervention for toddlers with autism: the Early Start Denver Model. Pediatrics, 125(1), e17-e23. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/125/1/e17/29731
Holehan, K. M., & Zane, T. (2019). Is there science behind that?: The Early Start Denver Model. Science in Autism Treatment, 16(2). https://mailchi.mp/asatonline/science-in-autism-treatment_2019_02
Fuller, E. A., Oliver, K., Vejnoska, S. F., & Rogers, S. J. (2020). The effects of the Early Start Denver Model for children with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis. Brain sciences, 10(6), 368. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/10/6/368
Wang, Z., Loh, S. C., Tian, J., & Chen, Q. J. (2022). A meta-analysis of the effect of the Early Start Denver Model in children with autism spectrum disorder. International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, 68(5), 587-597. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/20473869.2020.1870419
Jhuo, R. A., & Chu, S. Y. (2022). A review of parent-implemented early start denver model for children with autism spectrum disorder. Children, 9(2), 285. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/9/2/285
