What is DIRFloortime  and How Do We Use It?

At our center, we use the DIRFloortime  approach as the foundation for how we support children in therapy. DIR stands for Developmental, Individual differences, Relationship-based and it’s a tailored therapeutic model that we use to meet each child exactly where they are. 

 

Through this approach, we honor your child’s unique strengths, interests, and ways of relating to the world and we do this through play-based, gentle, and neurodiversity-affirming activities. 

 

Why Does a Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based Approach Matter?

 

DIR is a more holistic and family-centered framework that allows for growth through connection, curiosity, and meaningful interaction. 

 

• Developmental means we look at where a child is in their overall growth (instead of their age or how many words they say) as well as how they are developing across communication, emotional, social, and motor areas.

• Individual differences acknowledges that every child is unique. We consider sensory needs, preferences, motor abilities, and other individual factors to better understand how they experience the world.

• Relationship-based means we put connection first. We focus on building meaningful, trusting relationships between child and therapist, child and parent, and parent and therapist because real learning and communication happens through shared interactions.

 

This approach is the opposite of traditional behavioral-based therapy. Meaning, we don’t apply a one-size-fits-all program or force children into rigid goals. 

 

Instead, we follow their lead, support their regulation, and build on their natural curiosity and desire to engage. Communication is about connection. It’s about sharing joy, ideas, and emotions – and that’s what we nurture at CLDC.

 

How Long Has CLDC Been Practicing DIRFloortime ?

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Since our founding more than 25 years ago, CLDC has embraced the ideals of DIRFloortime . Our current owner and a practicing SLP, Tina Boike, took over from and was mentored by the original founder of CLDC. She is a big believer in DIRFloortime  – seeing firsthand the progress kids make from this approach. 

 

Every therapist at CLDC is mentored, trained, and certified at the basic or next level of DIRFloortime . It’s who we are and the direction of where therapy is going. 

 

What Does DIRFloortime  Look Like in Our Therapy Center?

 

It looks like how it sounds! We get down on the floor to play and engage with your child and their interests – whether we’re working on speech therapy, occupational therapy, or other developmental needs. 

 

You might find us in our large sensory gym working on motor skills, regulation, or sensory input while we take advantage of our many different swings and supportive equipment. Or maybe we’re coming up with fun ways for your child to express themselves and interact more meaningfully as we work on communication skills.

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How Do Families Participate?

 

Parents and caregivers are integral to the therapy team – playing a pivotal role in their child’s development and progress. We invite and encourage parents to be part of our therapy sessions – collaborating with us as we build essential connections and expand upon your child’s strengths and interests. 

 

You know your child best and we’re here to support you! Together, we can help your child grow, connect, and thrive in ways that are meaningful to them and you.