WHAT IS FLOORTIME?

Floortime therapy derives from the Developmental Individual-difference Relationship-based model (DIR) created by child psychiatrists Stanley Greenspan, M.D. and Serena Wieder, PhD. Its premise is that adults can help children expand their circles of communication by meeting them at their developmental level and building on their strengths. (Autism Speaks)

During floortime with your autistic child, parents follow the lead of their child in a calm setting (playtime, bath time, etc.) for at least 20 to 30 minutes at a time where the child is engaged around their interests and encouraged to take the lead and direct the play. The primary goal is to keep the interaction going as long as possible without interference from an adult or caregiver avoid taking over.

Sources and helpful links:

Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism – “DIR®/ Floortime™: An Introduction” – http://www.thinkingautismguide.com/2010/09/dir-floortime-introduction.html

Autism Speaks – Floortime – http://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/treatment/floortime

Pinterest Board – Floor Activities for Kids with Autism – http://pinterest.com/pin/127578601917442282/

The Association of Community Living – For People With Autism – http://theassociationinc.org/index.php?section=autism-resources-about-us