Occupational therapy for kids can help children with developmental, sensory and physical challenges to develop the life skills they need to succeed. Pediatric occupational therapists work with infants, toddlers and children, including young children with disabilities, according to the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
The goal of handwriting tutoring is to help your child thrive in their environment through meaningful tasks that promote development, independence, and well-being. OT for kids involves a family-centered approach in which the therapist considers the child’s strengths and needs.
Play is one of the most important things children do in their lives, and when they have trouble playing or engaging in other activities it can affect all aspects of their growth and development. Occupational therapists can use play to teach your child skills like balance, strength, hand-eye coordination and interaction with other children or toys.
Problems with gross motor skills are common for children who have special needs. These issues include difficulties related to balance, strength and endurance, affecting their ability to climb stairs, walk, hop, or play catch. Know more about education at http://www.ehow.com/how_6801107_start-education-website.html.
Preschool enrichment often collaborate with physical therapists on these skills and may work on proprioception or body sense to enhance the child’s ability to control their body. They also work with children who are struggling with fine motor skills, which are the muscles that allow them to pick up, write and carry objects.
Your child's GP or a family health nurse can tell you if occupational therapy is right for your child, and they may refer you to an OT. The OT can do an assessment to determine your child’s needs, and work with you and the GP to provide a plan that will help your child meet their goals.
Why you should consider occupational therapy for your child
The most important thing to remember about pediatric occupational therapy is that it is a process. It takes time and consistent intervention to achieve your child's goals. This is why it's so important to make sure your child is enrolled in therapy as soon as they have concerns about their abilities or developmental milestones.
A therapist can assess your child's strengths and weaknesses to help them reach their full potential. They can then develop a treatment plan that will include fun activities and motivating tasks to encourage your child's success.
OT for children helps them gain confidence and independence, improving the quality of their daily lives. It can be a long process, but the effort will pay off in the end when your child feels better about themselves and their abilities.
School-based OTs are a great option for children who need extra support in the classroom. OTs can partner with teachers and other specialists to identify assistive technologies, adaptive tools and equipment that will help your child succeed in their education. They can even push-in with your child to their classroom if necessary, providing therapy services when they're in their natural environment and working with their teacher.