Occupational therapists help people across the lifespan participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities (occupations). Common pediatric occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities or delays be able to dress themselves, use handwriting to complete homework, participate in school and community activities, tolerate a variety of sensory experiences, pay attention in class and at home, and play with friends.
Occupational therapy services may include evaluations of the child’s fine motor, self-care, sensory processing, attention/self-regulation, and play/social skills; a discussion of the environments the child participates in; and guidance and education for family members and caregivers. Occupational therapy practitioners have a holistic perspective, in which aspects of the child, his/her environment, and the activity are taken into account during evaluation and intervention.
More information about occupational therapy/OT services with children and youth can be found at: http://www.aota.org/Consumers/Professionals/WhatIsOT/CY/Fact-Sheets/CY-Role.aspx?FT=.pdf or ask/email Rhonda or Annelise!!