Summary of DIR/Floortime Research - York University

A York University study found that autistic children who received DIR/Floortime therapy showed significantly reduced social anxiety, increased social enjoyment, and developed stronger emotional connections with their parents.

The research, featured on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), highlighted neuroscientific evidence showing that this child-led approach creates "activity changes" in the brain by respecting a child's individual differences and focusing on relationships. 

Key findings of the York University study

The study's results demonstrated the therapeutic value of the DIR/Floortime approach, specifically revealing the following outcomes:

• Reduced social anxiety: Children in the study experienced a significant decrease in social distress.

• Increased social enjoyment: The children moved from not enjoying social interactions to enjoying them more.

• Stronger parent-child connection: Parents who were coached on how to use Floortime learned to better connect and relate with their children, a key component of the DIR model.

• Neuroplasticity: The research showed "two-three fold activity changes" in the brain, suggesting that a child's natural defenses are lowered when their individual differences are respected, allowing for greater developmental progress.

• Focus on relationships: The results underscored that "creating that emotional connection with the child" is more beneficial than simply "teaching them how to behave". 

Broader research on DIR/Floortime

The findings from the York University study are consistent with other research on the effectiveness of DIR/Floortime:

• Improved developmental skills: Multiple studies confirm that DIR/Floortime can significantly enhance a child's social-emotional functioning, communication skills, and emotional regulation.

• Reduced parental stress: Research has shown that teaching parents Floortime techniques can reduce their stress levels and improve the overall parent-child relationship.

• Holistic development: The approach emphasizes developing a child's social, emotional, and intellectual skills through play-based interaction, fostering growth in areas like communication and daily living skills. 

For more information

Additional details on the York University study and the DIR/Floortime approach are available in a video from the CBC report - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzsMiM6l00M