Understanding the Floortime Approach
As parents, we always want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their development and well-being. If your child has developmental challenges or autism, you might have heard about the Floortime approach. But what exactly is it, and how can it help your child? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What is the Floortime Approach?
The Floortime approach is a way to help children with developmental challenges by using play and relationships to promote growth. The idea is to meet children at their current developmental level and help them progress through key milestones by engaging with them in a meaningful way.
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Key Principles of Floortime
Child-Centered
Floortime focuses on the child’s interests and strengths. By following their lead, we can create a more engaging and enjoyable learning experience.
Developmental
The approach helps children move through important developmental stages, such as emotional and intellectual growth.
Relationship-Based
Building a warm and trusting relationship is at the heart of Floortime. This connection helps children feel secure and more willing to explore and learn.
Thinking-Based
Encouraging children to think, problem-solve, and create is crucial. This helps them develop long-term learning skills rather than just memorizing information.
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How Does Floortime Work?
Floortime involves getting down on the floor with your child and engaging in play that follows their interests. Here are some steps to get started:
- Observe: Watch your child and see what they are interested in. This could be a toy, a game, or even a simple activity like drawing.
- Join In: Get on their level and join in the play. If they are building with blocks, start building with them. If they are drawing, pick up a crayon and draw alongside them.
- Follow Their Lead: Let your child take the lead in the activity. This helps them feel in control and more engaged.
- Challenge Gently: While following their lead, gently challenge them to expand their abilities. For example, if they are building a tower, suggest adding more blocks or creating a different structure.
How Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) Use Floortime
SLTs use the Floortime approach to help children improve their communication skills. Here’s how they do it:
- Engagement: SLTs engage with children through play, following their interests to build a connection. This makes the child feel comfortable and more willing to communicate.
- Modeling Language: During play, SLTs model appropriate language and communication skills. They might describe what they are doing, ask questions, or encourage the child to express themselves.
- Interactive Play: SLTs use interactive play to encourage back-and-forth communication. This helps children learn to take turns, listen, and respond, which are crucial skills for effective communication.
- Expanding Communication: SLTs gently challenge children to expand their communication. For example, if a child points to a toy, the therapist might encourage them to use words to ask for it.
Benefits of Floortime
- Improved Communication: By engaging in meaningful play, children can improve their communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal.
- Stronger Relationships: The approach helps build a stronger bond between you and your child, fostering trust and emotional security.
- Enhanced Development: Floortime supports overall development, including social, emotional, and intellectual growth.
The Floortime approach is a flexible and fun way to support your child’s development. By focusing on their interests and building a strong relationship, you can help them reach their full potential. Remember, the key is to be patient, observant, and engaged. Happy playing!
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Our Speech and Language therapists can help enhance language abilities, articulation,
and social communication, empowering you to communicate confidently and effectively!
Schedule a consultation with Perfect Balance Speech & Language Therapy today, and
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- Request an Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- A joint effort to make progress
- Work towards easier communication
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