DIR Floortime® And How It Connects to Occupational Therapy

At Growing, families often hear us talk about DIR Floortime®—but what does it actually mean, and why do occupational therapists use it in their practice?

Understanding DIR Floortime®

DIR Floortime® is a developmental approach that helps children learn, grow, and connect by meeting them right where they are.

• DIR stands for Developmental, Individual-differences, Relationship-based.

  • Developmental: Every child moves through a series of stages in emotional and social growth. DIR looks at where a child is currently functioning and helps support progress to the next stage.

  • Individual-differences: Each child processes the world in unique ways—through movement, touch, sound, vision, or communication. DIR recognises and respects these differences.

  • Relationship-based: Relationships with caregivers and trusted adults are central to learning. Connection fuels growth.

• Floortime is the hands-on, playful part of the model. It involves following a child’s lead, joining them in what interests them, and gently expanding interactions to build communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

  
  

Why OT and DIR Floortime® Work Hand in Hand

Occupational therapists are uniquely positioned to use DIR Floortime® because OT is all about supporting participation in everyday life through meaningful activities. Many of the challenges children experience—such as self-regulation, attention, sensory processing, and social interaction—are directly addressed through both OT and Floortime.

Some ways OTs integrate DIR Floortime® into sessions:

• Regulation: Helping a child find calm, alert states so they’re ready to learn and engage.

• Sensory integration: Using play that matches a child’s sensory needs (e.g. movement, tactile play, sound) to support comfort and exploration.

• Social connection: Building turn-taking, joint attention, and back-and-forth interaction through playful exchanges.

• Emotional growth: Supporting children to express feelings, cope with frustration, and build resilience.

• Functional skills: Using relationship-based play to support everyday skills such as communication, problem-solving, and independence.

  
  

What This Looks Like in Practice

In an OT session, you might see us on the floor following your child’s lead in play—pretending, stacking blocks, racing cars, or using sensory equipment. While it may look like “just play,” each moment is intentional.

We are creating opportunities for:

• Connection through eye contact, gestures, and shared joy

• Building longer chains of back-and-forth interaction

• Supporting regulation and attention

• Encouraging flexible thinking and problem-solving

  
  

Why Families Love This Approach

DIR Floortime® feels natural and empowering. It places your child’s strengths, interests, and unique profile at the centre. Families often tell us that it gives them practical tools to connect with their child at home while also supporting developmental progress.

Final Thoughts

DIR Floortime® isn’t about changing who a child is—it’s about celebrating their individuality and supporting them to grow through relationships, play, and meaningful experiences. As OTs, we love using this approach because it aligns perfectly with our core values: supporting children to participate, connect, and thrive in the world around them.