DIR Floortime vs Hanen: 4 Key Differences and Therapy Approaches
March 12, 2025
Discover the 4 key differences between DIR Floortime and the Hanen approach. Learn how each therapy supports social and communication skills.
Key Points:
- DIR Floortime focuses on child-led interactions to promote emotional and cognitive development, while Hanen emphasizes structured parent coaching and communication strategies.
- Both approaches support children with autism and developmental delays but differ in methodology and goals.
- DIR Floortime is more individualized, whereas Hanen follows a more standardized framework for language and social growth.
According to the CDC, about 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Early intervention is critical in helping children build communication, social, and cognitive skills. Two widely recognized therapy models—DIR Floortime and Hanen—offer unique approaches to supporting children with developmental delays. While both focus on enhancing interaction and engagement, they differ in methodology, implementation, and goals.
What is DIR Floortime?
DIR Floortime (Developmental, Individual-Differences, Relationship-Based Model) is a therapy approach designed to meet children at their developmental level and build skills through emotionally meaningful interactions. Created by Dr. Stanley Greenspan, this model helps children develop emotional regulation, social engagement, and complex thinking through play.
DIR Floortime is particularly effective for children with autism and other developmental challenges who struggle with emotional and social engagement. It helps them build relationships by entering their world and using their interests as a bridge to higher-level thinking and communication.
What is the Hanen Approach?
The Hanen approach, developed by The Hanen Centre, is a structured, evidence-based method that teaches parents how to support their child's language and social development through everyday interactions. It is commonly used for children with autism, speech delays, and social communication difficulties.
4 Core Elements of Hanen Therapy:
- Parent Coaching: Parents are trained to use specific strategies to encourage communication and social engagement.
- Structured Framework: Uses established programs like “It Takes Two to Talk” and “More Than Words.”
- Focus on Communication: Prioritizes speech, gestures, and interaction skills through guided techniques.
- Group-Based Learning: Often conducted in small group settings for parent education and support.
Unlike DIR Floortime, which is child-led and flexible, Hanen programs follow a structured format with clear objectives. The goal is to equip parents with techniques they can consistently apply at home to foster their child's communication abilities.
4 Key Differences Between DIR Floortime and Hanen
While both approaches aim to enhance communication and social development, they have fundamental differences in structure, methodology, and focus.
1. Approach and Methodology
- DIR Floortime: Child-led, play-based, and flexible; focuses on emotional and cognitive growth.
- Hanen: Parent-directed, structured, and strategy-based; emphasizes language and communication skills.
2. Role of Parents and Therapists
- DIR Floortime: Therapists and caregivers interact with the child based on their interests, fostering deeper engagement.
- Hanen: Parents receive direct coaching on how to apply communication strategies in daily interactions.
3. Flexibility vs. Structure
- DIR Floortime: Highly adaptable and individualized.
- Hanen: Follows a standardized framework with established techniques and structured sessions.
4. Goals and Focus Areas
- DIR Floortime: Enhances emotional regulation, problem-solving, and cognitive development.
- Hanen: Strengthens language skills, social communication, and parent-child interaction.
Choosing the Right Approach for Your Child
Selecting between DIR Floortime and Hanen depends on the child’s needs, family preferences, and therapy goals.
DIR Floortime is ideal for:
- Children who struggle with emotional engagement and social reciprocity.
- Parents who prefer a more organic and flexible approach.
- Kids who need support beyond just language, including cognitive and emotional development.
Hanen is beneficial for:
- Children with specific language and speech delays.
- Families who want structured guidance on communication techniques.
- Parents who prefer group-based learning and direct coaching.
Both approaches can be used together in some cases, as they complement each other by addressing different developmental aspects.
Experience DIR Floortime Support in New Jersey
If you're looking for DIR Floortime therapy in New Jersey, WonDIRfulPlay offers expert-led intervention tailored to your child's needs. We provide engaging, child-centered sessions that nurture social, emotional, and cognitive growth through meaningful play.
Our team understands that every child develops uniquely, and our DIR Floortime approach ensures personalized support that meets them where they are. Whether your child faces challenges in communication, emotional regulation, or social interaction, we’re here to help them thrive.
Connect with us today to learn more about how DIR Floortime can make a difference for your child’s development!
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