Please note: These workshops have been transferred to an online environment as a result of restrictions during the COVID-19 crisis.
What is the Early Start Denver Model?
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a play-based intervention, specifically designed for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It has a strong and growing evidence base around the world. Focusing on play and routines, it integrates both behavioural and developmental principles to empower children with ASD to become active participants in the world around them.
ESDM aims to increase the development of play skills, cognition, imitation, joint attention, social skills, and communication, while also decreasing the symptoms of Autism. Research has found that ESDM can significantly improve cognitive skills and both maladaptive and adaptive behaviours of children with ASD.
Following training, the ESDM can be implemented at home by parents and trained therapists, in clinics by healthcare professionals, and in early childhood education settings by qualified staff. It can also be implemented remotely by a Certified ESDM Therapist.
The ESDM is a naturalistic intervention, which fits well with mainstream early childhood education centres as it is underpinned by play-based learning, the development of secure and reciprocal relationships, the promotion of communication, and by following child interests and choices, it also optimises motivation.