Hello!

Today I want to talk about a topic that is very near and dear to my heart: DIR/Floortime and play-based therapy.

As a speech pathologist, I have had the privilege of working with children who have various communication differences. Over the years, I have come across several therapeutic approaches, each with its unique strengths and strategies. In this blog post, I'd like to explore the DIR/Floortime approach, also known as Developmental, Individual-Difference, Relationship-Based model, from the perspective of a speech pathologist.

DIR/Floortime is an evidence-based intervention approach that was developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan and Dr. Serena Wieder. It is a comprehensive model designed to promote the development of communication and play. The approach focuses on building relationships, understanding an individual's developmental profile, and facilitating social and emotional growth. DIR/Floortime offers a holistic approach to communication development. It recognizes that communication is not just about words but is deeply intertwined with emotional connections, engagement, and the child's unique profile.

DIR/Floortime was initially developed with Autistic children in mind. It aims to address the unique developmental differences these children often face. The approach focuses on building social, emotional, and communication skills, which are particularly relevant. In my opinion, the DIR/Floortime approach has the unique ability to support a child at their level, consider their sensory needs and focus on the relationship between the child and their communication partner. Other candidates for DIR/Floortime include children with Developmental Delays, Sensory Processing Disorders, and social and emotional challenges, as well as neurotypical children with language delays or disorders.

DIR/Floortime emphasises connection over compliance in the therapy-relationship, as it ensures the therapist is 'listening' to your child's cues about their preferences, choices and opinions in play. Meaningful play is by far the most powerful tool in your arsenal when it comes to your child’s development.

Key considerations of DIR/Floortime are as follows:

• The Foundation of DIR/Floortime: Developmental Milestones

One of the core components of DIR/Floortime is its emphasis on developmental milestones. As a speech pathologist, I appreciate how this model takes into account the individual differences in development that children may exhibit. In our practice, we often encounter children who may be delayed in certain areas while excelling in others. DIR/Floortime acknowledges this and tailors interventions to meet the child where they are in their developmental journey.

• Relationship-Centred Approach

DIR/Floortime places a strong emphasis on nurturing relationships between the child and their caregivers, therapists, and other significant individuals in their life. This resonates deeply with the work of speech pathologists who understand that effective communication is intrinsically tied to the quality of the relationships involved. The approach encourages caregivers to engage in meaningful, emotionally connected interactions with the child, which can lead to improved communication outcomes.

• Sensory Processing and Regulation

As speech pathologists, we are acutely aware of the sensory needs and sensitivities that some individuals may experience. DIR/Floortime incorporates sensory processing and regulation as a fundamental aspect of the intervention. By addressing sensory concerns, the approach helps create a more conducive environment for language and communication development. Understanding and accommodating a child's sensory preferences and sensitivities can be crucial in our work to facilitate effective communication.

• Communication as a Core Component

While DIR/Floortime is not solely a speech and language therapy approach, it recognizes the importance of communication development in the broader context of the child's overall development. Speech pathologists play a vital role in addressing communication challenges within the framework of DIR/Floortime, ensuring that the child's specific communication needs are considered and supported throughout their developmental journey.

• Flexibility and Individualization

 Every child is unique, and the approach recognizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. This approach encourages therapists, caregivers, and other professionals to tailor interventions based on the child's specific strengths and challenges. This level of customization aligns well with the principles of speech pathology, where individualized treatment plans are paramount.

As a speech pathologist, I see DIR/Floortime as a powerful approach that harmonises development, relationship-based, and individualised principles. It offers a comprehensive framework that supports not only communication development but also the emotional and social growth of children. By embracing these principles and collaborating with parents and other professionals, speech pathologists can contribute to the remarkable journey of children as they progress through their unique developmental stages, connecting with the world and finding their voices in their own special way.

As with many in the speech pathology community, I am on the journey of improving my practice. At Days Ahead Speech Pathology, we do our best to ensure we are using neuro-affirming practices and language. We currently use information from Reframing Autism (https://reframingautism.org.au/) to support us using identity-first language.

If a you believe DIR/Floortime could support your child, please get in touch using the 'Contact Us' button.

Thanks,

Sarah

Director & Speech Pathologist

Days Ahead Speech Pathology