Issue #8 – Floortime & Neurodiversity: Embracing Strengths, Supporting Differences
✨Growing Together: A Newsletter on DIR/Floortime ✨
Dear Families, Therapists, and Educators,
Neurodiversity reminds us of a simple but powerful truth: there is no single “right” way to think, feel, learn, or relate. Each brain is unique—and that uniqueness is not a problem to be fixed, but a strength to be understood and celebrated.
DIR/Floortime is grounded in respect for individual differences. It invites us to go beyond surface behaviors or diagnostic labels and instead build authentic, developmental relationships with each child—on their terms, in their world.
🌈 What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the idea that neurological differences—such as autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, and dyslexia—are part of natural human variation. These differences affect how people process information, regulate emotions, connect socially, and experience the world.
Just like biodiversity supports the health of an ecosystem, neurodiversity enriches our communities, schools, and families.
How DIR/Floortime Aligns with Neurodiversity
✅ Individual Differences are honored—not “normalized”
✅ Strengths are spotlighted and used as a foundation for growth
✅ Relationships are built around curiosity, not compliance
✅ Developmental goals are pursued through meaningful, respectful interaction
💬 A Shift in Language and Mindset
|
Old Model |
Floortime & Neurodiversity Lens |
|
“Fix the behavior” |
“Understand the message behind the behavior” |
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“Noncompliant” |
“Communicating a need or boundary” |
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“Low functioning / high functioning” |
“Every person has a unique profile of strengths and challenges” |
|
“Social skills training” |
“Real, co-regulated relationships" |
🌟 Everyday Floortime Practices That Support Neurodivergent Kids
- Follow Their Lead—Even When It’s Different
🧠 Whether your child is lining up cars, scripting movie lines, or flapping excitedly—this is their language. Join with curiosity, not correction.
“I love how excited you are about trains—tell me more about this one!”
2. Create Sensory-Safe Spaces
🧺 Offer headphones, dim lighting, calming visuals, or movement options to support comfort and focus.
DIR Tip: Notice and adapt based on their sensory profile, not one-size-fits-all strategies.
3. Respect Communication Differences
💬 Whether your child speaks, types, uses gestures, or scripts—every communication is valid.
“You’re showing me something important. I’m listening.”
4. Reframe Behavior Through Regulation
😡 Outbursts or withdrawal are often nervous system responses, not defiance.
Floortime Tip: Co-regulate first. Connection opens the door to collaboration and learning.
💬 Parent Reflection:
“Before Floortime, I was focused on milestones. Now I’m focused on moments. My child is growing, not by trying to fit in—but by feeling understood.”
🧠 Remember: Strengths May Look Different
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A child’s intense focus = deep curiosity
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Repetitive play = predictability and comfort
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Scripting = processing, connection, and self-expression
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Non-verbal = rich communication through other channels
What looks “different” might actually be a doorway into something beautiful.
📚 Recommended Resources
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Uniquely Human by Dr. Barry Prizant
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NeuroTribes by Steve Silberman
📅 Coming Next Issue:
“Play Isn’t Just a Break: Why It’s the Heart of Development”
By honoring neurodiversity through the Floortime lens, we don’t just support children—we celebrate them. And in doing so, we build a more inclusive, compassionate world for everyone.
With joy and hope,
Courtney St.Germain, DIR-Expert, OTR/L
Founder of Child & Family Development
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