Early Start Denver Model for Young Autistic Children

Used worldwide, this trusted resource is now in a thoroughly revised second edition, reflecting key advances in early intervention research and practice. The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is the first comprehensive, naturalistic, developmental–behavioral, empirically tested intervention specifically designed for infants displaying early signs of autism and young autistic children. Leading experts Sally J. Rogers and Geraldine Dawson guide practitioners to assess and support all aspects of children’s development—including social communication, language, cognition, imitation, and play—using enjoyable, interactive routines in everyday settings. The manual is grounded in state-of-the art findings from the developmental, clinical, and learning sciences. The companion website provides details about the ESDM Fidelity Rating System and a summary of key intervention strategies.

New to This Edition

• Chapters on what to do when a child’s progress is concerning, partnering with families, and implementation of ESDM in different countries and cultures.
• Significant new research on brain development and how it differs in autism.
• Updated and comprehensive approach to promoting language development, with increased attention to alternative and augmentative communication strategies.
• New and revised decision trees and expanded efficacy research.
• Focus on promoting autistic children’s development from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective.

Establishing individualized teaching objectives and plans for each child requires the use of the Early Start Denver Model Curriculum Checklist for Infants and Young Autistic Children, Second Edition, sold separately in sets of 15 ready-to-use booklets.