Exploring DIR Floortime: More Than Just Play

What is DIRFloortime? 

DIRFloortime is a child-centered, play-based approach designed to support emotional and cognitive growth, particularly for children with autism and other developmental challenges. It emphasizes the power of relationships and human connection to spark meaningful, playful interactions that help develop key skills such as communication, self-regulation, social problem-solving, and abstract thinking. The approach follows the DIR model, which stands for Developmental, Individual-differences, and Relationship-based. By understanding both the "D" (developmental) and the "I" (individual differences), we can use the "R" (relationships) to support healthy growth and help every child and individual reach their fullest potential (What is DIR?). Through these interactive experiences, DIRFloortime helps children grow emotionally, socially, and cognitively, creating opportunities for them to explore and engage with the world in a safe and supportive environment.

The Principles of DIRFloortime

The essence of DIRFloortime lies in balancing two key elements: following the child’s or individual’s lead while gently challenging them to grow through their Functional Emotional Developmental Capacities (FEDCs) (Greenspan). Instead of direct instruction, the emphasis is on interaction—engaging in meaningful back-and-forth exchanges, known as 'circles of communication,' with the goal of the individual increasingly initiating and expanding these circles over time. Central to this approach is being attuned to both the child’s and our own individual differences, allowing us to tailor interactions in ways that support regulation, engagement, two-way communication, and collaborative problem-solving. For instance, if a child is under-responsive to touch and sound, we need to be very energetic in drawing the child into a shared experience. On the other hand, if a child is over-responsive to touch and sound, showing signs like holding their ears and becoming easily overwhelmed, we may need to be especially gentle while still engaging them effectively (Greenspan). DIRFloortime is also strength-based, treating all behaviors as intentional forms of communication. Even when we don’t fully understand an action, we presume competence and respond respectfully and purposefully. The ultimate goal is to encourage the child or individual to deepen and expand their interactions, promoting ongoing emotional and developmental growth.

How DIRFloortime Can Support Your Child? 

DIRFloortime can support your child by creating opportunities for them to feel safe and connected in a shared world with others. It focuses on understanding your child's unique needs and providing a sense of safety, which encourages them to explore relationships and their surroundings. Through meaningful, play-based interactions, DIRFloortime helps your child develop a stronger connection to others and become more active in social situations. In fact, a 2011 randomized controlled trial found that children receiving DIRFloortime showed significant gains in social communication compared to individuals receiving other therapies (Casenhiser et al., 2014). Ultimately, DIRFloortime not only nurtures your child’s capacity for joyful, respectful interactions, but also builds the critical foundations for lifelong learning, emotional well-being, and meaningful relationships.

References

Casenhiser, D. M., Binns, A., McGill, F., Morderer, O., & Shanker, S. G. (2014a, September 19). Measuring and supporting language function for children with autism: Evidence from a randomized control trial of a social-interaction-based therapy - journal of autism and developmental disorders. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10803-014-2242-3#citeas

Home of dirfloortime® (Floortime) - what is dir®?. Home of DIRFloortime® (Floortime) - What is DIR®? (n.d.). https://www.icdl.com/dir

Home of dirfloortime® (Floortime) - dirfloortime® explained by dr. Greenspan. Home of DIRFloortime® (Floortime) - DIRFloortime® Explained by Dr. Greenspan. (n.d.-a). https://www.icdl.com/parents/webradio/dirfloortimemodel