“ESDM, through its integrative approach to naturalistic, developmental–behavioral intervention, represented a paradigm shift for providers and caregivers when it first appeared. The second edition of this manual and the companion checklist expand the focus to younger children, among other revisions. All of us who work with and care about young autistic children will gain from ESDM’s innovative methods. The manual is filled with strategies leading to learning and fun, descriptions of activities and everyday materials that make the strategies possible, and insightful reminders of what we are trying to accomplish.”

—Catherine Lord, PhD, ABPP, George Tarjan Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Education, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles


“Rogers and Dawson are true giants in the field of autism and state-of-the-art intervention—and this book demonstrates why. ESDM is clearly and methodically presented in a way that is readily accessible to clinicians, researchers, and educators. I am particularly impressed by the emphasis on how sound research has informed—and continues to inform—the ongoing development and improvement of ESDM. The book fosters a real understanding of the ‘why’ as well as the ‘how’ of implementation. This is so important and leads to better intervention use. Anyone involved in the study or treatment of young children with autism must have this book in their library.”

—Laura Schreibman, PhD, Emeritus Distinguished Professor, Department of Psychology, University of California, San Diego


“The second edition of the ESDM manual and checklist provide comprehensive, detailed information to powerfully support the growth and development of young autistic children. The manual includes important, helpful overviews of the current research base and an increased focus on neurodiversity-affirming care. It offers updated findings and recommendations related to intervention dosage, the use of alternative and augmentative communication strategies, and goal setting to enhance children’s quality of life.”

—Zachary Warren, PhD, Professor of Pediatrics, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Special Education, Vanderbilt University


“ESDM is recognized as one of the leading naturalistic, developmental–behavioral interventions in the global autism community. The second edition of the core ESDM manual draws on the authors’ remarkable theoretical and clinical expertise and reflects the changing landscape of the field. The second edition’s specific focus on working with parents and families (who are ultimately the most important support and intervention partners) and the framing of ESDM in a neurodiversity-affirmative way are very powerful. It is very exciting to see how the intervention approach has been translated into so many different languages and cultural contexts. Further, these authors know how to write! Chapters are well structured and detailed, and feature excellent practical information, case examples, checklists, and stories.”

—Petrus J. de Vries, MBChB, FRCPsych, PhD, Director, Centre for Autism Research in Africa, University of Cape Town, South Africa