The Approach I Use
DIR Floortime: development led by the child
DIR Floortime is a play-based approach that follows the child's interest and lead, supporting development within relationship. I draw on it in my sessions to enter the child's world and strengthen communication in its natural setting.
What Is DIR Floortime?
DIR Floortime is a development- and relationship-centred approach built on the child's developmental level (D), individual differences (I) and relationships (R). "Floortime" is how the model is put into practice: the adult comes down to the child's level — often to the floor — and follows the child's interest to build enjoyable, purposeful interaction.
What does DIR stand for?
Developmental
Starts from the developmental step the child is on and supports the next one.
Individual differences
Takes account of each child's sensory, motor and regulatory differences.
Relationship
Recognises that development happens within safe, enjoyable relationships.
In short: DIR Floortime supports development by following the child and inviting interaction, rather than directing them.
What Does It Support?
Floortime supports not just particular skills but the developmental building blocks that underpin communication and learning.
- Two-way communication and interaction
- Joint attention and eye contact
- Social-emotional development
- Problem solving and reasoning
- Self-expression and use of language
- Emotional regulation and confidence
How I Use It in Sessions
I combine my speech and language therapy goals with Floortime principles that follow the child's lead. Communication then develops inside natural interaction the child enjoys.
I follow the child's lead
I join whatever play and subject interests them at that moment, starting the interaction from their world.
I open circles of interaction
Small, enjoyable challenges invite the child into circles of communication.
I weave language goals into play
I work on word, sentence and communication goals naturally, drawing on what motivates the child.
I involve the family
I show families the same principles and carry therapy into daily life with strategies they can use at home.
The family's role: Floortime's greatest strength is that it can be used at home too. We show families how to interact with their child and bring therapy into everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Supporting Development by Connecting With Your Child
Get in touch to talk about how my DIR Floortime-based approach could benefit your child.