Feeding Therapy at Puzzle Pieces
DIRFloortime® at Puzzle Pieces
At Puzzle Pieces, our DIRFloortime® therapy isn’t about checking boxes or fixing behaviors. It’s about building deep, joyful connections that support real developmental growth, one moment, one interaction, one relationship at a time.
A Relationship-Based Approach to Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Growth
DIRFloortime® (Developmental, Individual-differences, Relationship-based) is an evidence-based model designed to help children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, anxiety, and other developmental challenges thrive. By following the child’s lead and using playful, emotionally meaningful interactions, our clinicians support communication, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and connection.
What Does DIRFloortime® Therapy Look Like?
No two DIRFloortime® sessions look the same, and that’s the point! Each session is built around your child’s unique interests, sensory needs, and emotional readiness in the moment. Our clinicians follow your child’s lead, using their natural motivation to build foundational skills such as:
Communication and Connection
Emotional Regulation
Social Interaction and Empathy
Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving
What We Address
Emotional Regulation: Stay calm, recover from frustration, and manage big feelings
Our Evaluation Process
Our DIRFloortime® evaluations are all about understanding your child: who they are, how they learn, and how we can support their growth.
Parent Intake – We begin with a conversation to learn about your child’s development, daily routines, and your goals.
Play-Based Observation – We spend time interacting with your child to understand how they engage, regulate, and problem-solve.
Developmental Profile – Using the DIR® framework, we assess key areas like emotional development, sensory needs, and communication.
Collaborative Goal Setting – We’ll meet again to share insights and create a personalized plan for therapy and at-home support.
What Makes the Puzzle Pieces Approach Different
At Puzzle Pieces, DIRFloortime® isn’t just something we do, it’s how we think, connect, and support families every day.
Relationship First – Progress begins with trust and emotional connection
Collaborative Care – Our multidisciplinary team works together to see the whole child
Parent Partnership – Caregivers are part of the process, every step of the way
Neurodiversity-Affirming – We celebrate differences and build on each child’s strengths
Community Support – We offer free seminars, groups, and events that bring families together
FAQ
You don’t need a diagnosis to benefit from DIRFloortime®. Many families reach out because they notice their child:
Has difficulty with big feelings or calming down
Struggles with connection or communication
Gets overwhelmed by sensory input or transitions
Seems “stuck” or has plateaued developmentally
Needs help translating strengths into everyday success
If that sounds familiar, we’re here to help.
DIRFloortime® is effective across all ages — from toddlers to teens. At Puzzle Pieces, we specialize in working with children 12 and under, adapting the approach to meet each child exactly where they are, developmentally and emotionally.
Parents are always welcome — and vital to the process. Whether you’re playing alongside your child, observing sessions, or joining for coaching, your presence strengthens progress. We also offer parent-only sessions for deeper support, strategy, and guidance.
