DISCLAIMER
Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information sent out does not imply that Autism South Africa underwrites or endorses any particular therapy, intervention, method or medication. Autism South Africa assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information provided herein.
HOW TO USE FLOORTIME
Parents considering using Floortime as an intervention for their child should ideally see a trained therapist in this area. However, it is acknowledged that some parents may not be able to afford intervention services, or may not be able to access them in their area. This guide explains the basics of how to use Floortime, and parents are encouraged to explore further resources and advice before commencing home-based Floortime.
GOALS OF FLOORTIME INTERVENTION
Floortime aims to help children on the autism spectrum to:
• become more alert
• take more initiative
• become more flexible
• tolerate frustration
•sequence longer actions - plan and execute them
• mediate process of finding solutions
• communicate gesturally and verbally
• take pleasure in learning
INTRODUCTION TO FLOORTIME
While interventions such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Lovaas program have proved effective as interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders, new types of developmental interventions are emerging in response to criticisms that the rote learning involved may not always result in generalized learning.
Floortime involves meeting a child at his or her current developmental level, and building upon a particular set of strengths. Floortime is child-focused - the parent or therapist follows the child's lead, with playful positive attention and tuning in to the child's interests. By entering into a child's world, support can be given to climb the 'developmental ladder' despite an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
HOW DID FLOORTIMEDEVELOP?
Beginning in the 1980s Greenspan built upon research into social-emotional development to create a proprietary intervention for children with deficits in relating and communicating. This method is known as Developmental Individual Difference Relationship Model (DIR Model). Floortime, which is a specific therapeutic technique also developed by Greenspan, is often confused with the DIR Model.