Early Intervention Services Northern Beaches
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a fun, play-based intervention designed to improve language, social, and cognitive skills in young children. Using engaging activities, the therapy targets each child's unique goals, ensuring that every session is both enjoyable and impactful.
ESDM is a collaborative approach that involves not only the therapist but also the child and their parents, working together to create a supportive and consistent learning environment.
This therapy is ideal for children aged 2 to 5 years old, though it can benefit children as young as 12 months and up to 7 years old. Whether your child is just starting their journey or is transitioning to school, ESDM offers valuable support for building essential skills during these critical years.
ESDM
Early Start Denver Model
The Early Start Denver Model is an evidence-based, play-based intervention tailored specifically for young children with Autism or similar developmental needs. This approach integrates therapy into play and daily routines, making learning engaging and natural for your child. By focusing on their individual interests and strengths, ESDM helps build essential skills such as communication, social interaction, and play in a fun and supportive way.
What does an ESDM session look like?
A typical ESDM therapy session lasts for one hour and is centered around play-based activities that focus on the specific objectives set from the Curriculum Checklist. The therapist will engage your child in fun, interactive tasks designed to promote key developmental skills, while closely monitoring their progress over time.
Throughout the session, the therapist adjusts activities as needed to ensure they align with your child’s pace and evolving needs. At the end of each session, detailed notes are taken, and objectives are reviewed and updated as necessary to ensure your child is continually progressing and achieving their personalised goals.
School and Daycare Support
At All Things Ability, we believe in the power of teamwork to support your child’s development. We work collaboratively with your child’s daycare, preschool, or school to help implement recommended strategies that align with their unique needs.
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) emphasizes a collaborative approach, encouraging open communication and partnership between all service providers involved in your child’s care. By working together, we can create a consistent and supportive environment across all settings, helping your child thrive both at home and in their educational journey.
What does an initial eSDM session look like?
During the initial session, a certified ESDM therapist will engage with your child through play-based activities to observe their strengths and areas for growth. This session is designed to complete the Curriculum Checklist, which evaluates your child’s developmental progress across four levels.
The developmental domains assessed include:
Receptive Communication (understanding language)
Expressive Communication (using language)
Imitation
Play Skills
Joint Attention
Social Skills
Cognition
Fine Motor Skills
Gross Motor Skills
Self-Care Skills
This comprehensive assessment helps the therapist set personalised goals for your child, forming the foundation for future therapy sessions. Each session is designed to be fun, engaging, and tailored to your child’s individual needs, ensuring meaningful and measurable progress over time.