If you’ve been told your child might benefit from occupational therapy and you’re not quite sure what that means, you’re not alone. OT can feel like a broad term, and many families start out feeling uncertain about what it actually involves. At Light OT, we’re here to help demystify the process and show you how OT can support your child in real and meaningful ways.
Occupational therapy is all about helping people do the things that matter most to them. For children and young people, these ‘occupations’ often include play, learning, making friends, building independence, and managing everyday routines like dressing, eating, and sleeping.
Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis or delay, OTs take a whole-child approach. We consider a child’s environment, their strengths, their challenges, and how they experience the world. Then we work together to support meaningful participation in daily life.
OT is for anyone who would benefit from extra support to participate in their everyday activities. At Light OT, we work with children and teens of all ages, including neurodivergent young people, those with developmental delays, sensory differences, emotional regulation challenges, and more.
Your child does not need a formal diagnosis to see an OT. If they’re struggling with aspects of daily life, and you’d like support to help them thrive, OT might be a great fit.
Occupational therapy can help in many areas of life. For children and teens, these often include:
– Building independence in routines like toileting, dressing, or packing a school bag
– Understanding and responding to big emotions
– Managing sensory sensitivities
– Developing coordination, balance, strength, or fine motor skills
– Supporting focus, attention, memory, and planning
– Building meaningful connections and participating in community life
– Navigating school transitions, friendships, and expectations
There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and that’s the point. Sessions are tailored to your child’s needs and goals. For younger children, therapy may look like play, movement, art, or sensory exploration. For older children and teens, it might include practicing routines, using visual supports, exploring regulation tools, or discussing challenges in a safe and supportive space.
Our therapists also work closely with parents and carers. We often share strategies you can use at home and collaborate with teachers or other professionals when helpful.
We understand that children experience the world in different ways, and that’s not something we’re here to change. Our role is not to make a child appear “typical” or meet a standard that doesn’t suit them. Instead, we focus on helping each child feel safe, confident, and connected in their own skin.
We work with your child, not on them. That means valuing their voice, respecting their needs, and building on their strengths. We do not use compliance-based approaches or reward systems that ignore the underlying reasons for a child’s behaviour.
Every child is different, but here are some signs that families often notice before seeking support:
– Difficulty with transitions or daily routines
– Sensory overload in busy or noisy environments
– Challenges with coordination, handwriting, or self-care
– Emotional outbursts or frequent shutdowns
– Avoidance of certain tasks due to discomfort or anxiety
– Trouble focusing or staying organised
– Delays in reaching developmental milestones
You don’t have to wait for a diagnosis to get support. If you’re noticing that things feel harder than they should, an OT can help you make sense of what’s going on.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step. We’re here to make it simple. When you contact us, we’ll chat with you about your child, your concerns, and your goals. If OT is a good fit, we’ll book an initial session where we’ll get to know your child and begin exploring supports that feel right for your family.
You’ll never be left wondering what’s next. We’ll walk alongside you every step of the way.
Occupational therapy is not just about ticking boxes or meeting milestones. It’s about helping your child grow into themselves with confidence. It’s about giving families tools that work in real life. And it’s about building a foundation for connection, regulation, and participation that feels authentic and achievable.
If you’re curious about whether OT could help your child, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to Light OT to learn more or book an appointment.
Last modified: 03/09/2025
