Would my child benefit from occupational therapy?

Every child grows and learns in their own unique way, and their journey is just as valuable, no matter how it looks. Occupational therapists work alongside children and their families to support everyday activities. They adapt tasks to suit each child’s strengths, preferences, and needs. OTs assist with activities like play, self-care, emotional regulation, and motor skill development. They help children build confidence and independence in ways that feel right for them. But how do you know if occupational therapy might be a good fit for your child?

How Occupational Therapy Can Support Your Child

Children develop in their own time. Some may benefit from extra support to navigate daily life. Occupational therapy provides tailored strategies and adaptations to help children engage in meaningful activities. Here are some areas where OT can offer support:

Building on Developmental Milestones
Children reach milestones like crawling, walking, talking, and using tools at their own pace. An OT can offer strategies that support your child’s natural development, helping them progress in ways that feel right for them.

Fine Motor Skills
If your child requires additional support with tasks like writing, cutting, or getting dressed, an OT can offer support. They can help with:

• Holding and using a pencil or scissors comfortably
• Exploring activities like drawing and colouring
• Gaining independence with buttons, zippers, or shoelaces

Gross Motor Skills
Physical movement, coordination, and balance develop differently for every child. If your child finds barriers to activities like running, climbing, or balancing, occupational therapy can help. OTs create fun, engaging activities that build strength, coordination, and body awareness.

Sensory Processing
Children experience the world through their senses. For some, sensory input can feel intense or less noticeable. If your child:

• Is overwhelmed by noise or bright lights
• Avoids certain textures, foods, or messy play
• Seeks extra movement or pressure to feel regulated

OTs can help by adapting environments, offering self-regulation strategies, and supporting sensory needs in safe, empowering ways.

Emotional Regulation and Co-Regulation
Big emotions are a natural part of childhood. Some children benefit from support in managing them. If your child has strong emotional reactions or struggles with transitions, OT can help. OTs provide tools to navigate emotions in ways that work for your child.

Supporting Focus and Engagement
If your child finds it hard to focus or stay still, occupational therapy can help. OTs can support executive functioning skills by:

• Providing tools for organisation and routines
• Offering movement breaks to support attention
• Using play-based strategies to engage in tasks

Daily Routines and Transitions
Sometimes, activities like getting ready for school or brushing teeth can feel overwhelming. Occupational therapy can provide strategies to make these routines more manageable and less stressful for your family.

A Strengths-Based Approach

Occupational therapy is not about “fixing” anything. It’s about understanding, adapting, and supporting each child in ways that respect their individuality. OT helps children engage with their world and build confidence. By focusing on their strengths and interests, OTs empower children to navigate life with joy and ease.

Want to chat about how we can support your child?
Get in touch today to book a consultation or learn more about our services.