The Early Start Denver Model

Learning Through Social Interaction

Children learn best through interaction. ESDM increases engagement by fostering communication, play, and social skills through everyday routines such as mealtime, dressing, and play.

Individualized and Developmental

ESDM follows a structured curriculum tailored to each child’s developmental level. Areas of focus include:

• Communication through language, gestures, and facial expressions.
• Social skills such as eye contact, turn-taking, and imitation.
• Pretend and cooperative play.
• Personal independence during dressing, hygiene, and mealtimes.
• Fine and gross motor development.

Natural ABA Strategies

ESDM incorporates Applied Behavior Analysis principles in a flexible and natural way. Instead of rigid drills, ESDM follows the child’s interests to create an enjoyable learning environment.

• Imitation and modeling encourage learning through observation.
• Prompting and shaping guide skill development.
• Natural reinforcement keeps learning enjoyable.

Parent Involvement and Coaching

Parents and caregivers are central to a child’s progress. Through coaching sessions, they learn to integrate ESDM strategies into daily activities and become active partners in their child’s development.

Transdisciplinary Team Approach

ESDM brings together specialists—including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and educators—to create a holistic learning plan addressing all areas of development.

Group Learning Opportunities

In addition to one-on-one therapy, ESDM incorporates small-group settings that encourage peer learning, social interaction, and the use of developing skills in a structured, supportive environment.