How Does ESDM Differ from ABA

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) are both evidence-based approaches for supporting children with autism. However, they differ in their focus, teaching methods, and delivery styles. Understanding these differences can help parents choose the most suitable therapy for their child.

ESDM was developed to address gaps in ABA, which historically evolved as a behavioural science without a primary focus on capacity building for young children. By borrowing the evidence-based principles of ABA, ESDM improves its application for young learners through play-based and naturalistic teaching strategies. For example, ESDM resolves challenges in skill generalisation by using techniques such as least-to-most prompting.

1. Core Philosophy

ESDM: Focuses on developmental milestones and social engagement. It combines play-based activities with a naturalistic approach to teaching, emphasising the child’s overall development rather than just behaviours.

ABA: Primarily focuses on modifying specific behaviours by using structured teaching methods and reinforcement techniques. The goal is often to increase desired behaviours and reduce undesired ones.

2. Teaching Style

ESDM:

Uses a naturalistic and play-based teaching approach, following the child’s interests and embedding learning into everyday activities.
Encourages spontaneous interactions and shared activities, which helps children develop social and communication skills in natural settings.

ABA:

Typically involves structured, one-on-one teaching in a controlled environment.
Lessons are often divided into small, discrete tasks, with skills taught in a step-by-step manner.

3. Child-Centred vs. Task-Centred

ESDM: Takes a child-centred approach, tailoring activities to the child’s interests and developmental level to create enjoyable and engaging experiences.

ABA: Uses a more task-centred approach, with specific goals and behaviours broken down into measurable components to track progress.

4. Flexibility and Context

ESDM: Delivered in a variety of settings, such as at home, in therapy room, in childcare centres, or during everyday routines. ESDM encourages learning in natural contexts, enabling children to generalise skills more effectively across environments.

ABA: Often begins in a controlled, structured setting, such as a therapy room, with skill generalisation addressed later.

5. Focus on Relationships

ESDM: Places significant emphasis on nurturing the relationship between the child and caregivers or therapists. Parents play an active role in the intervention process, which strengthens bonds and promotes shared learning.

ABA: While involving caregivers, the primary focus remains on achieving measurable behavioural outcomes rather than fostering parent-child relationships.

6. Use of Prompts and Reinforcement

ESDM: Utilises naturalistic prompts and reinforcement methods like praise or engaging in enjoyable activities. These techniques are seamlessly embedded in play and daily routines.

ABA: Often relies on systematic prompting and reinforcement, including tangible rewards such as tokens, stickers, or preferred items.

7. Evidence of Outcomes

ESDM: Research demonstrates its effectiveness in enhancing social engagement, communication, and cognitive skills through naturalistic interventions. Studies also show that ESDM can normalise brain activity in children with mild autism symptoms and enhance IQ and capacity building in all children receiving ESDM therapy.

ABA: Long-standing research supports its ability to address specific behavioural challenges, such as reducing repetitive behaviours and teaching functional life skills.

8. Qualification and training

ESDM: Training in the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is designed for therapists with a background in early childhood education, autism studies, or allied health fields such as qualification in psychology, speech pathology, and occupational therapy. Certification requires therapists to demonstrate fidelity in the 13 teaching principles of ESDM, ensuring they can effectively apply the model’s developmental and play-based approach.

ABA: Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is taught as a specialised discipline, with certification in Australia available as a Certified Behaviour Analyst (CBA) or internationally as a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). While ABA training focuses on behaviour modification principles, early intervention is not typically a core feature of standard ABA courses.

Which Approach is Best for Your Child?

ESDM is focused on development whilst applied behavioural analysis (ABA) is historically focused on behaviour. With time, further research and practice, each approach is evolving and actual practice may vary from provider to provider.

At Best Future, whilst many of our staff have previously had ABA qualifications and experience, our programs are predominantly use ESDM.

If your child is aged 1 to 6 years, and you’re looking for an intensive early intervention program that integrates developmental and relational goals through play, ESDM will be the most suitable evidence-based early intervention therapy for your child to learn and generalise skills in a more natural learning environment.

If your child is older and school-aged, and you are seeking a highly structured, behaviour-focused program, ABA might be more suitable. You may consult your child's paediatrician to determine the best path forward for your child.