The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a proven, play-based therapy designed for toddlers with autism and young children experiencing developmental delays.

Key benefits include:

• Evidence-based early intervention combining developmental and behavioural techniques.

• Focus on improving communication, social, and cognitive skills.

• Play-based therapy delivered in a fun, natural environment that encourages learning.

• Flexible and tailored to each child’s unique needs and goals.

• Helps children achieve progress in communication, social interaction, and overall development.

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is ideal for children aged 12months to 6 years old diagnosed with autism or developmental delays. It’s suited for families seeking early intervention to support their child’s development through a flexible, play-based approach tailored to each child’s specific needs.

Children without an autism diagnosis can also benefit from ESDM. The approach focuses on enhancing language, social, and cognitive skills, making it suitable for any child with developmental delays or challenges. ESDM’s play-based, flexible methods can help all children build important skills in a fun and engaging way

Yes, we do home visits, however there is an additional travel fee rate of 0.97c per a KM.

When a therapist provides sessions at your home, it's beneficial to create a dedicated, quiet space free from distractions to ensure effective therapy. The therapist will bring the necessary materials and activities. While not essential, having a small table and chair can be ideal if your child is able to sit, as it helps facilitate the therapy sessions.

ESDM is supported by a strong body of evidence. Research has shown that children who receive ESDM therapy experience significant improvements in social skills, language development, and cognitive abilities. Several studies, including randomised controlled trials, have demonstrated that early intervention with ESDM can lead to measurable developmental gains. Additionally, brain imaging studies have shown that ESDM can positively influence brain activity patterns in young children with autism, further supporting its effectiveness.

Mind Project welcomes both privately paying families and those accessing NDIS funding under Self-Managed or Plan-Managed arrangements.

At this time, we’re not able to offer services for NDIA-Managed participants. This allows us to provide families with greater flexibility, personalised support, and prompt access to appointments. Our fees align with the NDIS Price Guide 2025–2026, ensuring transparency and fairness across all our autism therapy services.

At Mind Project in Kogarah, our Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) therapy blends evidence-based science with play, warmth, and family connection. Each session is tailored to your child’s unique strengths and goals, focusing on communication, social interaction, and everyday learning. We use fun, play-based activities to teach new skills, while coaching parents to confidently use these strategies at home. Our goal is to help children aged 18 months – 5 years grow, connect, and thrive in the moments that matter most.

At Mind Project, parents are a vital part of the ESDM process. Your child will take part in fun, play-based sessions using toys and games that spark learning and connection. During each session, you’ll be guided in how to use these same strategies at home and in everyday routines—whether that’s mealtime, playtime, or time with siblings. We track progress every session so you can clearly see your child’s growth and celebrate each new step together. By partnering closely with families, we help skills learned in therapy become part of daily life.