Understanding

DIR® Floortime

A Child-Centered Approach to Therapy
DIR® Floortime is a developmental, relationship-based model that focuses on understanding and supporting a child’s unique strengths and challenges. This approach is designed to foster emotional, social, and cognitive growth through meaningful interactions and play.

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What is DIR® Floortime?

DIR stands for Developmental, Individual-differences, and Relationship-based. The model emphasizes meeting children where they are developmentally and tailoring interventions to their individual needs.

Key Principles of DIR® Floortime

  • Developmental: Focuses on fostering key milestones in emotional and intellectual growth.
  • Individual Differences: Considers each child’s sensory processing, motor planning, and communication abilities.
  • Relationship-Based: Builds strong, trusting relationships as the foundation for learning and growth.

How DIR® Floortime Works:

  • Encourages playful, child-led interactions to promote engagement and connection.
  • Uses shared experiences to help children build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Supports parents and caregivers in understanding and responding to their child’s needs.

Benefits of DIR® Floortime in Therapy

DIR® Floortime is a highly effective approach for helping children and adolescents achieve their full potential. 
Some of its benefits include:

Promotes Emotional Regulation

  • Helps children identify and manage their emotions.
  • Builds resilience in handling frustrations and challenges.

Enhances Social Skills

  • Encourages meaningful interactions and relationships.
  • Improves communication and collaboration with peers and caregivers.

Supports Cognitive Development

  • Fosters creativity and critical thinking through imaginative play.
  • Strengthens problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Strengthens Parent-Child Bonds

  • Teaches parents how to engage with their child in meaningful ways.
  • Builds trust and connection within the family unit.

Who Can Benefit from DIR® Floortime?

DIR® Floortime is particularly effective for children and adolescents with:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Sensory processing challenges
  • Developmental delays
  • Emotional or behavioral regulation difficulties
  • Communication or social interaction challenges

This approach is versatile and can be tailored to meet the needs of a wide range of developmental and emotional concerns.

Why Choose Touchstone Therapy Center for DIR® Floortime?

At Touchstone Therapy Center, we are committed to offering evidence-based, child-centered therapies like DIR® Floortime. Our trained therapists work closely with families to:

  • Create individualized treatment plans that align with the child’s developmental stage and goals.
  • Foster a supportive and engaging environment for growth and learning.
  • Equip parents and caregivers with tools and strategies to support their child’s progress at home.

Touchstone Clinicians who Specialize in DIR® Floortime

Start Your Journey with DIR® Floortime

DIR® Floortime is more than a therapeutic model—it’s a way to connect with children on their level and help them flourish. If you think this approach may be right for your child, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Touchstone Therapy Center today to learn more about DIR® Floortime and how it can support your child’s growth and development.