MINDFUL  EDUCATION  SERVICES

What  is  DIR®? 

 

DIR is the Developmental, Individual-differences, & Relationship-based model (pronounced saying  each letter as an initialism: D.I.R.). It was developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan to provide a  foundational framework for understanding human development. It explains the critical role of social emotional development starting at birth and continuing throughout the lifespan. It also provides a  framework for understanding how each person individually perceives and interacts with the world  differently. The model highlights the power of relationships and emotional connections to fuel  development. Through a deep understanding of the "D" and the "I" we can use the "R" to promote  healthy development and to help every child and person reach their fullest potential. 

DIR is rooted in the science of human development and can sound very technical at times. However,  it is also very simple. It is a pathway to promote healthy development in a respectful manner that  builds connections, understanding, love, communication, and engagement. 

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DIR  OBJECTIVES

 

"Let's help our children become the poets of their inner lives."

  - Dr. Stanley Greenspan

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Based on the DIR® model developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan his colleagues, DIR Floortime (Play Therapy) is an intervention used to promote an individual’s development through a playful, engaging, and fun process. Using the power of human connections and relationships, Ascend Beyond Pediatric and Family Therapy strives to promote positive behaviors, communication, thinking, and engagement. 

In-Home DIR Floortime/Play Therapy can be used to care for individuals with developmental challenges and other related conditions, as well as for those on the autism spectrum.

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Floortime focuses on six key milestones to promote emotional and intellectual development, namely:

• Emotional Ideas

• Emotional thinking

• Engagement

• Shared Attention

• Two-way purposeful interaction (with gestures)

• Two-way purposeful problem-solving interaction

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Floortime occurs in a calm environment – it can be done at home or in a professional setting. It also includes training for parents and caregivers, as well as promoting interaction with the child. Duration of each therapy session may vary.

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SCHOOL - BASED   THERAPEUTIC   COMPANION 
A school-based therapeutic companion, also known as a shadow aide, is someone who attends school with your child navigate and participate in school routine, develop positive peer . The companion can focus on supporting child’s academics functioning, social- emotional regulation, impulse control issues, unique sensory profiles,  social skills and support play skills. The companiom is there to provide your child with as much or as little support as needed to be successful in school. As your child becomes more independent, the companion will gradually reduce their help until your child is able to navigate on their own. 

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BEHAVIOR   INTERVENTION

We use Positive Behavior Support Strategies to teach clients:

• Coping & Self-Regulation

• Compliance

• Attention to Task

• Social Communication

• Adaptive & Play Skills

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COMMUNITY   INTEGRATION

The Therapeutic Community Integration Program supports individuals with a range of intellectual, behavioral, and abilities to realize the most independent and fulfilling life possible.

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