The Early Start Denver Model

  • The Early Start Denver Model is one of the most trusted and research supported approaches for helping very young children with autism build strong foundations in communication, social interaction, and learning. At Play Based Wellness, we choose ESDM because it reflects what science tells us about how infants and toddlers grow, how relationships shape early development, and how natural interactions support meaningful progress.

  • ESDM is a naturalistic, relationship centered intervention created specifically for children between 12 and 48 months. Instead of relying on rote drills or isolated teaching, ESDM blends developmental science with applied behavior analysis in a way that feels familiar to young children. Learning happens inside playful exchanges, shared attention, and everyday routines where children naturally communicate and explore.

    The approach is grounded in decades of research on infant toddler development and the early signs of autism. This scientific base allows clinicians to target the exact areas where autism creates barriers to learning, such as social engagement, joint attention, language development, and flexible play.

  • Intervention follows a carefully developed curriculum that outlines developmental steps across communication, cognition, imitation, social engagement, play, and adaptive behavior. Children are taught within warm, responsive interactions so they stay regulated and motivated. The therapist follows the child’s lead, builds connection first, and creates meaningful opportunities to practice new skills.

    ESDM can be used across settings. Sessions may occur in a clinic, at home, in childcare, or within community environments. Parents and caregivers are supported in using ESDM strategies throughout daily routines so learning continues beyond session time.

  • Research on ESDM has consistently shown improvements in language, cognitive development, adaptive behavior, social communication, and overall developmental growth. Many studies have also demonstrated gains in IQ, increased engagement with caregivers, and stronger generalization of skills to natural environments.

    Because ESDM mirrors the way young children learn from relationships, it often produces progress that is both measurable and meaningful. Families also benefit through parent coaching that strengthens connection, confidence, and understanding of how to support development at home.

  • Although ESDM spans all developmental domains, it places special emphasis on the areas most affected by autism in early childhood. These include:

    • Social emotional development
    • Language and communication
    • Cognitive flexibility and problem solving
    • Early play and imitation
    • Adaptive skills that support independence

    Strategies are rooted in the developmental literature and in applied behavior analysis. Each child’s program is individualized, monitored through ongoing data, and adjusted based on the child’s unique learning patterns.

  • Parents who want to learn more about ESDM often begin with the book An Early Start for Your Child with Autism, a practical guide written for families. ESDM is also described in detail in several professional texts, including resources on assessment, curriculum, and parent coaching.

  • • Rogers and Dawson, 2010. The Early Start Denver Model for Young Children with Autism.
    • Rogers, Dawson, and Vismara, 2012. An Early Start for Your Child with Autism.
    • Rogers, Vismara, and Dawson, 2021. Coaching Parents of Young Children with Autism.

Play-Based ABA

Done the Evidence-Based Way

Click Here to Learn More About the ESDM

It all begins with understanding how young children actually learn. True play-based therapy is not simply playing during sessions. It is guided by naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions, also known as NDBIs. These are research-validated models that combine developmental science with applied behavior analysis in a way that feels natural, joyful, and meaningful for early learners.

At PBW, every child’s program is shaped by gold standard NDBI tools. We use assessments and teaching methods aligned with the Early Start Denver Model, one of the most widely researched and effective intervention models for young children. These assessments help us understand each child’s communication, social engagement, play skills, and learning style, so every goal is rooted in real developmental needs.

This approach matters. Many clinics advertise that they are play-based, but do not use evidence-based developmental assessments to guide treatment. Our work is different. We use validated protocols to turn play into purposeful learning, helping children build language, social understanding, problem-solving, and independence in ways that match their natural development.

Be clear, confident, and informed when choosing a provider. Your child deserves therapy that is grounded in science, driven by developmental understanding, and delivered in a way that feels warm, connected, and joyful. At PBW, we are committed to an approach that grows with your child and honors how children learn best.