Teaching Everyday Skills Using ESDM at Bath Time and Bedtime

Bath time and bedtime are everyday routines that can easily turn into valuable learning opportunities for young children, especially when using the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). By weaving teaching moments into familiar, predictable parts of the day like bath and bedtime, parents and caregivers can support their child’s communication, social engagement and independence in a relaxed and meaningful way.

At bath time, there are many chances to build skills. You might start by encouraging your child to make choices — for example, choosing between two bath toys or picking which soap to use which supports communication skills and decision-making. Parents can use simple language paired with gestures (e.g., “Wash arms!” while modelling the action) to help build understanding and imitation. Singing songs, making bubbles, and taking turns pouring water can further support social interaction and joint attention. Using ESDM principles, it’s important to focus on following the child’s interests and keeping the interaction playful, so they remain engaged and motivated to participate.

Bedtime routines also offer rich opportunities for learning. Reading a story together can encourage language development and shared enjoyment. Pausing during the story to let your child fill in words or point to pictures helps develop expressive and receptive language skills. You can also work on self-help skills, like encouraging your child to pull up their pyjama pants or put on their own socks, even if they need help to finish. Using visual supports, clear cues and plenty of praise when they attempt or complete a task builds confidence and independence.

Throughout these activities, using ESDM’s ABC approach (Antecedent, Behaviour, Consequence) is key — setting up a supportive prompt, encouraging a response, and immediately rewarding it with positive feedback or access to a favourite bedtime story.

By using bath time and bedtime as teaching moments, parents can help their child generalise skills outside of structured therapy sessions and strengthen their bond through shared, enjoyable activities. With ESDM, learning doesn’t have to feel like “work” — it can be naturally embedded into the special, everyday routines that children look forward to. This approach empowers families to support their child’s growth in practical, loving, and joyful ways.