DIR® stands for Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based
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DIR Floortime is a relationship-based therapy for children with social communication difficulties including Autism. The intervention is called Floortime because the adult gets down on the floor with the child to play and interact with the child at their level. This approach was born from the work of Dr. Stanley Greenspan who was a clinical professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at George Washington University Medical School.
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"All Learning begins with affective and emotional engagement.” - Dr. Greenspan​​​​
The goal in DIR is to understand each unique child's individual profile and to then promote the developmental process to help the child reach their fullest potential. It is a developmental model focused on understanding the biological challenges that may be hindering the developmental process and to implement respectful and joyful strategies that support the development social emotional skills. This is done through a process that is based on developing an intrinsic desire or motivation to attend, communicate, and learn.
We are passionate about using the DIR model to help families better understand and support their children with developmental challenges. When we understand the importance of relationships, affect, and attunement, we can make the biggest difference for our kids and their families.
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DIR Floortime is an evidence based approach, please see the below link for information about the research behind this approach or contact us to learn more about how we can help you embed this approach into your everyday routine to support your child.