6 factors for positive results
as determined by Ramey and Ramey 1998:
- the sooner the better
- long-term (usually 2-3 years) and intensive, i.e. between 15-25 hours/week
- direct work with the child, about 2 hours per day, and not only information for parents
- Involvement and support of parents as the main agents of change
- Recognition of the individual differences of each child
- as far as possible at home
Parents are the most important "agents of change
Why parents?
... because parents are the true experts for their child
- Parents spend more time with their children than all their teachers and therapists combined.
- By training parents to be their child's best play partner, the child can receive the following. intensive High quality intervention every day.
- When parents/caregivers learn how to use the DIRFloortime approach through 1:1 coaching at home and at least 2 hours per day Playing with your child, usually in shorter sessions (e.g., 6 x 20 minutes), improves relationships because it creates an enjoyable time for you and your child.
- This kind of PLAY supports the child to Reappraisal of the central deficits of autism.
- This early intervention program aims to address developmental issues that a child needs to have mastered BEFORE Start in playgroups, kindergartens or other group facilities
- and to prepare to cope and learn with peers in school.