Early Start Denver Model (ESDM, model authors Sally J. Rogers and Geraldine Dawson)
A comprehensive behavioral early intervention approach for children with ASD, aged 12 to 48 months. This early intervention program combines a relationship-oriented developmental model with the already proven teaching methods described in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Its main characteristics include: the application of behavioral analysis in natural conditions; orientation to the stages of development (ontogenesis); deep and comprehensive participation of parents; focus on interpersonal communication and positive emotions; engaging in joint activities; teaching speech and communication within the framework of positive relationships. The Denver model of early intervention aims to develop children’s ability to interact socially, communicate and learn through play and interaction. Some tasks: development of skills in different areas: social skills, receptive and expressive communication, play, cognitive activity, fine and gross motor skills, adaptive behavior; stimulation of the child’s spontaneous inclination to make contact and interact with other people; Integration of learning situations into the daily life of the child and family is as natural as possible. The principles of the Denver model of early intervention are as follows: an individual approach – the program is based on the diagnosis of the child’s strengths and weaknesses. For example, if the child avoids eye contact, therapy begins with games, where looking “into the eyes” becomes a natural part of the process. Emphasis on communication – children learn to express desires not only with words, but also with gestures, looks, images. Development through play – The therapist uses toys that are interesting to the child to encourage cooperative attention (“look at that car!”), imitation (“replay how I build a tower”), and social interaction (“let’s feed the bear together”). Gradual complication of tasks – if the child has mastered a simple action (for example, pointing to the object “show the bear”), the task becomes more complicated (“show the bear and say “give”).