What is a key focus of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) in therapy?

What is a key focus of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) in therapy?

• A. Enhancing sensory processing
• B. Improving joint attention and shared interaction
• C. Increasing physical mobility
• D. Focusing on verbal communication skills

Answer: (B)

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a comprehensive, evidence-based early intervention approach for children with autism spectrum disorder, particularly aimed at those aged 12 to 48 months. A central focus of ESDM is improving joint attention and shared interaction. This model emphasizes the importance of social communication and the development of positive relationships between the child and caregivers or therapists. By enhancing joint attention, which involves engagement and shared focus on objects or activities between the child and another person, ESDM fosters social engagement and naturally promotes communication skills. This foundational skill is crucial for further developmental milestones in social interaction, cognitive processing, and language use. The approach incorporates play-based techniques that facilitate these interactions in naturalistic settings, which are essential for a child’s growth. Thus, improving joint attention and shared interaction is a key focus of ESDM, making it a significant element in the therapy provided to young children with autism.

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a comprehensive, evidence-based early intervention approach for children with autism spectrum disorder, particularly aimed at those aged 12 to 48 months. A central focus of ESDM is improving joint attention and shared interaction. This model emphasizes the importance of social communication and the development of positive relationships between the child and caregivers or therapists.

By enhancing joint attention, which involves engagement and shared focus on objects or activities between the child and another person, ESDM fosters social engagement and naturally promotes communication skills. This foundational skill is crucial for further developmental milestones in social interaction, cognitive processing, and language use. The approach incorporates play-based techniques that facilitate these interactions in naturalistic settings, which are essential for a child’s growth. Thus, improving joint attention and shared interaction is a key focus of ESDM, making it a significant element in the therapy provided to young children with autism.