Raising or working with a child on the autism spectrum often means looking beyond traditional approaches to development and communication. While structured therapies like ABA therapy have long been at the forefront, many parents and professionals are seeking alternative or complementary methods that prioritize emotional connection and natural interaction.
One such approach that has gained recognition for its developmental, respectful, and play-based nature is the DIR/Floortime model.
Here, we’ll dive deep into the strategies used in DIR/Floortime and how they can support children with autism in developing emotional, cognitive, and social skills in a natural, compassionate way. Let’s get started.
Meeting a Child Where They Are
The core of every Floortime session begins with the adult entering the child’s world. This can mean joining them in their preferred activity, whether that’s lining up cars, spinning in circles, or humming a tune.
Rather than trying to stop the behavior or redirect it immediately, the adult shows interest and curiosity.
For example, if a child is spinning a toy top repeatedly, a parent might sit nearby and start spinning their own top or comment, “Wow, yours spins so fast!” This isn’t just imitation for the sake of it — it’s a non-intrusive way to connect with the child and signal, “I see you, and I’m interested in what you’re doing.”
This joining behavior sets the stage for further interaction. It helps the child become aware of the adult’s presence in a positive, non-threatening way. And from here, a door opens for communication.
Following the Child’s Lead
Once the child is engaged and comfortable, the next step is to follow their lead. This means allowing them to direct the play while the adult builds on their ideas.
If a child is stacking blocks, instead of taking over or trying to introduce a new game, the adult might hand the child more blocks, comment on what’s happening (“Look how tall it is getting!”), or even add a little playful tension (“Uh-oh, is it going to fall?”).
This strategy promotes interaction without pressure. Children with autism often experience anxiety when demands are placed on them, especially in social settings. By following their lead, adults can create a safe and enjoyable environment that encourages spontaneous communication and emotional engagement.
Over time, this approach gently nudges the child toward new experiences and interactions. Rather than teaching skills in isolation, DIR/Floortime helps them emerge naturally as part of a meaningful relationship.
Circles of Communication
A central concept in DIR/Floortime is the idea of “circles of communication.” These are back-and-forth interactions between the child and the adult, like conversational turns, but often expressed through actions, gestures, or facial expressions.
For instance, a child may roll a ball to their parent, who then rolls it back. That simple exchange forms a circle.
The more circles that are opened and completed during an interaction, the more the child is practicing foundational skills like joint attention, turn-taking, and reciprocity.
The goal isn’t to push a child to speak or comply but to sustain a rhythm of interaction. Even nonverbal children can engage in rich, meaningful circles through eye contact, body language, or vocalizations. Adults can stretch these interactions by adding surprises, pauses, or playful challenges that prompt the child to respond and initiate new circles.
Supporting Emotional Development
DIR/Floortime places a strong emphasis on emotional development, not just behavioral compliance.
Children are encouraged to explore a wide range of feelings in a supportive context. When a child gets frustrated during a play session because the tower they’re building falls down, the adult doesn’t immediately fix the problem. Instead, they acknowledge the feeling: “That’s really frustrating, isn’t it? You worked so hard on it.”
By labeling emotions and providing a space where the child can express them safely, DIR helps build emotional regulation and resilience. Over time, children learn not only to experience and manage their own feelings but also to recognize those of others.
While DIR/Floortime focuses on nurturing the child’s emotional world, it’s also important to consider other therapy approaches that emphasize communication and behavior. For instance, Verbal Behavior Therapy (VBT) is a highly effective technique for promoting language and social skills in children with autism. If you’re looking to explore how VBT can provide tailored support for your child, check out our article, “Exploring Verbal Behavior Therapy for Autism Support.” It delves into how this approach can help foster meaningful communication and empower children on the autism spectrum.
Adapting to Individual Differences
Every child with autism has a unique sensory and cognitive profile. Some may be overwhelmed by loud sounds, while others may seek out spinning or bouncing. DIR/Floortime doesn’t use a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, it tailors strategies to the child’s specific sensory processing needs.
A child who is easily overstimulated might need a calm, predictable play environment with minimal distractions. A child who craves movement might benefit from Floortime sessions that include swings, jumping games, or rocking chairs.
By honoring these individual differences, DIR helps create interactions that feel safe and enjoyable for the child. Therapists and parents often work together to observe and understand the child’s unique profile, then adjust their strategies accordingly.
4 Goals of DIR/Floortime
While DIR/Floortime doesn’t focus on surface-level behaviors or rote learning, it does aim for deep, meaningful developmental milestones. These include:
These goals are achieved not through drills or repetition but through warm, emotionally meaningful interactions. That’s what sets DIR/Floortime apart.
Final Thoughts
DIR/Floortime isn’t a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all program. It’s a journey, often filled with surprises, setbacks, and breakthroughs. It asks adults to slow down, to listen more deeply, and to value emotional connection above immediate compliance.
For children with autism, this approach offers something incredibly powerful: the chance to grow and learn within the context of joyful, respectful relationships. It helps them develop not just skills but confidence, empathy, and a sense of self. And for the adults in their lives, it offers a renewed sense of hope and understanding.
As long as we meet children with autism where they are and invite them gently forward, they often show us just how far they can go. At Gracious Growth, we’ve seen this firsthand through our personalized ABA therapy programs. With locations at our autism center in Utah and Colorado, we provide families with warm, consistent, and evidence-based support that honors every child’s pace and personality.
Our team is passionate, highly trained, and committed to building meaningful progress through connection and care. If you’re looking for compassionate therapy that truly meets your child’s needs, contact us today so we can be part of your journey.
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