This engaging talk introduces practitioners to the DIR®/Floortime model—a comprehensive, evidence-based framework designed to support children with autism and related developmental challenges in a developmentally appropriate and relationship-based manner.
DIR (Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-based) provides a foundation for understanding how emotional, sensory, and relational factors interact to shape development. With a focus on affect-based interactions tailored to individual profiles, the model supports the emergence of cognitive, communicative, and social-emotional capacities.
This talk outlines the three core components of the model—Functional Emotional Developmental Levels (FEDLs), Individual Differences, and Relationships—and provides an overview of how the DIR® approach is applied in therapeutic and educational settings.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:
Understand the history and foundations of the DIR®/Floortime model.
Identify and describe the six foundational Functional Emotional Developmental Levels (FEDLs) critical for building regulation, communication, and thinking.
Recognise the impact of individual sensory and motor differences on development, and how to remain within scope while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
Appreciate the central role of relationships—particularly parent and caregiver interactions—in supporting a child’s developmental progress.
Learn basic principles of affect-based intervention, including practical applications of the DIR model in therapy or educational contexts.