What is RDI®

What is RDI®? Understanding the Relationship-Based Approach
 

Many families and educators ask, “What exactly is RDI®?” At its heart, RDI®, Relationship Development Intervention®, is a program designed to help children, especially those with developmental differences, build flexible thinking, emotional regulation, and meaningful connections. Unlike programs that focus only on behavior, RDI® emphasizes relationships and guided experiences that prepare children for real-life challenges.

1. The Core Idea: Relationships Come First

RDI® starts with the understanding that children learn best through relationships. Parents, caregivers, and teachers become guides, creating safe, structured opportunities for children to explore, solve problems, and connect with others.

2. Building Dynamic Thinking

Instead of memorising routines or rules, RDI® encourages children to develop flexible thinking, the ability to adapt to changes, consider different perspectives, and respond to new situations. This prepares them for real-life problem-solving and social interactions.

3. Supporting Emotional Regulation

Through RDI®, children learn to manage frustration, pause before reacting, and co-regulate with their guides. This doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a step-by-step process where parents and professionals scaffold just enough, letting children learn resilience and self-control.

4. Practical Impact

Children who participate in RDI® often show improvements in:

• Engaging more with family and peers

• Handling changes and challenges calmly

• Understanding others’ perspectives

• Developing curiosity and confidence

RDI® isn’t a quick fix. It’s a relationship-focused journey. If you’d like to learn more, explore our free ebook: Supporting Neurodivergent Children with Confidence, or start your journey with our free RDI® Made Simple course.

Contributed by

Genevieve Chua

Educational Psychologist and RDI® Training Director (Southeast Asia and Australia)

Children's Partnership