What Is DIR/Floortime?
DIR stands for Developmental, Individual-differences, and Relationship-based. It’s a framework developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan and Dr. Serena Wieder that helps children—especially those with developmental challenges like autism spectrum disorders—build foundational skills for lifelong learning, relating, and communicating.
Floortime is the core technique of the DIR model. It involves getting down on the child’s level (often literally on the floor!) and entering their world through play and interaction, following their lead while guiding them toward developmental goals.
Key Principles of DIR/Floortime
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Developmental: Focuses on the milestones children need to master for emotional and intellectual growth, from shared attention to complex thinking.
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Individual Differences: Recognizes that each child has a unique profile of strengths and challenges—sensory processing, motor planning, and emotional regulation are all considered.
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Relationship-Based: Builds trust and engagement through nurturing, responsive interactions with caregivers and others in the child’s life.
Why It Works
Child-led, adult-guided: Fosters intrinsic motivation and deeper learning
Promotes social-emotional growth: Strengthens the ability to relate, communicate, and think
Adaptable: Works in the home, classroom, or therapy settings
Evidence-informed: Supported by a growing body of research and clinical success stories
DIR/Floortime in Action
Imagine a 4-year-old who spins the wheels on a toy car repetitively. Instead of redirecting them to "normal" play, a parent might spin the wheels too and say, “Wow! Look how fast it goes!” From there, the adult introduces a new idea: “What if we race our cars?” This subtle shift invites interaction and emotional connection, the building blocks of development.
Tips for Getting Started
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Follow your child’s lead: What interests them? That’s your starting point.
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Join their play: Add gestures, sounds, or questions that gently extend their engagement.
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Be patient and present: Real progress happens through consistent, loving interactions.
Benefits of DIR/Floortime
DIR/Floortime has numerous benefits. It helps improve communication, social skills, and emotional development. It also fosters creativity and problem-solving abilities. Do you know someone who could benefit from this approach? Encourage them to join our community and share their journey!
From a Parent:
“Floortime changed how I see my child. Instead of trying to ‘fix’ behaviors, I connect with her, and she’s blossoming because of it.”
Coming Next Issue: "Floortime at Home: Easy Ideas for Everyday Play"
Until then, keep connecting, keep playing, and keep growing—together.
With warmth,
Courtney St.Germain, DIR-Expert, OTR/L
Founder of Child & Family Development
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