Five years ago, the term Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) was not part of my everyday vocabulary. Now, it’s a central aspect of my work, and I enjoy seeing every day how young children benefit from this wonderful model as either their primary intervention or as a complement to other therapies.
Here are seven reasons why you should consider ESDM for your child:
Social Engagement is Key
ESDM emphasizes the importance of social interactions between a child and their therapist. Building a positive relationship with the therapist is crucial for learning and creating opportunities. Autistic children often shy away from social interactions, but in ESDM, the therapist becomes a play partner who helps them achieve their goals.
Child-Led Play
A fundamental aspect of ESDM is allowing the child to lead the play. This choice enhances engagement and motivation as your child selects activities or play items they are interested in.
Play as a Learning Environment
After your child chooses the play materials, the therapist engages with them, building on each other's ideas. The therapist embeds teaching moments into the play routine, often targeting five or more goals within one activity, making play both fun and educational.
Developmentally Aligned Progress
The ESDM Curriculum Checklist assesses 11 developmental domains across four levels corresponding to different ages and stages. This assessment gives a clear understanding of your child's current level and tracks their progress over time.
Holistic Improvements
With over 40 years of research, ESDM demonstrates significant improvements across various developmental milestones, including social, cognitive, and communication abilities.
Strengths-Based Approach
Using the ESDM Curriculum Checklist, therapists identify your child's current skills and set goals just above their current level. This approach ensures that your child is challenged appropriately without being overwhelmed.
Data-Driven Success
ESDM follows best practices by being data-driven. Each program is based on specific developmental domains with SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timely) goals. Progress is meticulously tracked, and new goals are set once previous ones are mastered, ensuring continuous learning and growth.
These are just a few of the remarkable benefits your child can experience through an ESDM program. We invite you to explore our Group-based ESDM program for your child. For more information, reach out to us at admin@kindredkids.com.au or submit an expression of interest via our website.
Comments