What is OT for Kids?
The therapeutic use of everyday life activities (occupations) with individuals or groups for the purpose of participation in roles and situations in home, school, workplace, and community settings.
What do Occupational Therapists do?
- assess motor, cognitive, and behavioral skills
- address the individual needs of each child and his or her family
- facilitate competence and independence in daily activities
- promote healthy development and self-fulfillment for long-term wellness
What does OT improve?
- motor skills
- sensory discrimination and processing
- arousal level for optimal performance and safety
- self care skills
- self-concept
- environmental (school, home, community) fit
Who can benefit?
- increased activity level
- immature muscle development
- handwriting
- poor motor coordination
- poor interactive play skills
- low tolerance for sound, touch, or movement
- difficulty with changes in schedule
- decreased or increased pain tolerance
- decreased independence with self help skills
- decreased attention span
- delayed developmental milestones
- feeding difficulties