How to Use Greenspan's Floortime

Floortime is an approach to play that focuses on personal interaction rather than behavior. The system was developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan, who focuses on making play activities rewarding experiences for children with autism. Greenspan's Floortime is a process that helps children with autism and related pervasive developmental disorders interact with others while engaging in their favorite activities. Play is child-centered rather than adult-directed.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toys
• A clutter-free space

1. Begin by observing. Avoid manipulating toys and giving directions. Simply watch the child play and take note of how she does so. This phase is strictly observational and nonverbal.

2. Play parallel to the child. This stage of Greenspan's Floortime is still nonverbal and unobtrusive. The caregiver or therapist usually imitates the child's play behavior during this phase while leaving the child's area undisturbed.

3. Begin using words and gestures to show interest in the child's activity. Do this without disturbing the activity or stopping the flow of play. This stage of Greenspan's Floortime may take little time at all before the child tolerates the words and gestures. This shows that she is ready for the next step.

4. Gradually join the child's play activity. Follow the child's lead while slowly participating in play. Remain positive and unobtrusive. Watch carefully for the child's reactions and responses.

5. Be dramatic. Exaggerate facial expressions and movements. Encourage the child to do the same. This leads to the child referencing his play partner. Reward any interactions immediately.

6. Introduce phrases like, "my turn" and "you first" during the activities. Some directives like "wait, stop, go" and "not yet" can be playfully introduced to the exercises. Later, these verbal cues can be used in general settings.

7. Build on the interactions by generalizing Greenspan's Floortime exercises in everyday activities. Use familiar gestures and phrases used in play while out in the community, making transitions and during other common situations.

8. Encourage the child to initiate play and interaction. Use visual and verbal cues as prompts. Immediately reward any of the child's attempts to interact and play with others.

Tips & Warnings

• Floortime is a process.
• Reward positive responses immediately.
• Follow the child's lead.
• Some children will have difficulty tolerating others joining in play activities.
• Place no demands on the child during Greenspan's Floortime.

Resources

• Floortime Foundation
• Stanley I. Greenspan

[TammiR]

on 2/7/2008 Francine,
Great point! This approach works wonders. I like to begin with this before using ABA therapies. It helps to establish a trusting relationship with the child and it's very motivating.

[luv2laugh]

on 2/7/2008 I think it is important to note that Floortime is used to typically to develop social emotional skills. It helps the child (typically with Autism), to develop an intimate relationship with familiar people and therefore gives them the tools for a more meaningful life. So, readers, this method is respectful of the child and focused on relationships. It gives them internal motivation to learn and engage. Thanks for bringing up floortime on ehow!!

[luv2laugh]

on 2/7/2008 I think it is important to note that Floortime is used to typically to develop social emotional skills. It helps the child (typically with Autism), to develop an intimate relationship with familiar people and therefore gives them the tools for a more meaningful life. So, readers, this method is respectful of the child and focused on relationships. It gives them internal motivation to learn and engage. Thanks for bringing up floortime on ehow!!