What is DIR Floortime?
DIR Floortime was created by Dr. Stanley Greenspan. This method focuses on how each experiences the world uniquely and on social-emotional development. This is done by building meaningful relationships and emotional connections by implementing child-led strategies.
DIR stands for:
Developmental: understanding the developmental process.
Individual Differences: looking at each person uniquely and respecting those differences. This includes their strengths, interests, and sensory preferences for sensory regulation.
Relationship: Establish deep, meaningful relationships. This is done through child-led and play-based activities that promote emotional connection and social engagement.
DIR Floortime and Speech Therapy
The best time for a child to learn and process language is when they are socially engaged and regulated. (the base of DIR Floortime). When a child is engaged, this means that the child is with us physically and emotionally. A few signs of social engagement are smiling, laughing, and that very special gleam in the eye. When a child is socially engaged, we have gained their attention and interest (both are crucial for learning a language). Sensory regulation is when a child feels comfortable in their body and the environment. When a child’s sensory system is regulated, they can focus on what is going on in their environment and learn. Without social engagement and sensory regulation, speech therapy is not as effective. DIR gives us a strong base for teaching language meaningfully to the child. It also promotes intrinsic motivation because the child enjoys the language and social interactions. This enjoyment will inevitably lead to more communication and meaningful relationships.
Who can benefit from DIR Floortime?
Any child can benefit from DIR Floortime, especially those with sensory differences and are autistic. This approach has been very successful in supporting autistic children.
How To Find a DIR Floortime Practitioner?
You can go on the ICDL website for more information on DIR Floortime and use their DIR Directory to find a practitioner. Click on this link to search: https://www.dirdirectory.com/