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In the past decades, experts in child development studies have been conducting numerous researches in hopes of finding “ the one best way” of supporting children with developmental differences. Different approaches arose from these endeavours, thus providing parents with an array of choices and alternatives available for their child. However, although there is no single approach that can address and suit all the needs of the children in the world, there is still a great possibility of finding a program that best fits your child.
One of these learning and development methods is DIR floortime therapy. Many have attested to the positive changes and experiences children with autism spectrum disorder have during floortime. Even though DIR floortime has been effective for a great number of children who face developmental challenges, it may not be the appropriate method for some children. With this, you may want to take your time considering these factors that will help you determine whether DIR floortime therapy would be right for your child:
DIR provides support based on the individual needs and preferences of the child.
DIR stands for developmental, individual differences & relationship-based framework where it is both a way of understanding a child’s developmental aspects and his/her current stage. Through DIR floortime, a child’s needs become observable in how he/she creates the environment of the floortime. It is also where DIR clinicians and therapists can determine individual developmental goals that should be established. Moreover, parents, caregivers, other family members, and supportive people play a vital role in the therapy as DIR floortime emphasizes the integral role of relationships in a child’s experiences and moments in life.
DIR Floortime is for anyone.
As DIR highlights individual differences, the DIR floortime caters to people with autism spectrum disorder of any age. It is not confined to a set of procedures that are needed to be followed throughout the therapy. This intervention is intended to be freely modified based on what the person’s development conditions are and what it requires.
It’s a daily life experience.
One of the focuses of DIR is having caregivers value the everyday moments that a child encounters; those daily interactions can be utilized as simple interventions to support the child. Some examples of these are when a child eats his/her snacks, bathes prepares for school in the morning, and more.
DIR is a holistic approach.
The most notable features of DIR floortime include having the child initiate and lead the activity, thus paving the way to the discovery of what kind of floortime environment and approach works well for him/her. The child’s interests and skills are highlighted as he/she naturally exhibits his/her creative ideas, while parents, clinicians, or caregivers join in and support the activities the child prefers. More so, this holistic approach also highlights learning to understand the child’s senses, skills, triggers, and emotions. Once caregivers and clinicians can take note of these, you will be able to create an approach through DIR floortime that caters to all these.
