In Occupational Therapy we assess and work on fine motor, visual motor, sensory motor and self-care skills. These areas are addressed through a variety of intervention strategies, which include direct therapy with the child.
In addition to dealing with the physical well-being of the child, OT practitioners address psychological social and environmental factors that can effect functioning in different ways. This approach makes OT a vital part of health care for some kids.
KIDS WHO MIGHT NEED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
- birth injuries or birth defect
- sensory processing disorders
- traumatic injuries (brain or spinal cord)
- learning problems
- Autism/pervasive development disorder
- Juvenile Rheumatoid arthritis
- mental health or behavioral problems
- broken bones or other orthopedic injuries
- developmental delays
- post-surgical conditions
- burns
- spina bifida
- traumatic amputations
- cancer
- severe hand injuries
- multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and other chronic illnesses
Occupational therapists might:
- help kids work on fine motor skills so they can grasp and release toys and develop good handwriting skills
- address hand–eye coordination to improve kids' play and school skills (hitting a target, batting a ball, copying from a blackboard, etc.)
- help kids with severe developmental delays learn basic tasks (such as bathing, getting dressed, brushing their teeth, and feeding themselves)
- help kids with behavioral disorders maintain positive behaviors in all environments (e.g., instead of hitting others or acting out, using positive ways to deal with anger, such as writing about feelings or participating in a physical activity)
- teach kids with physical disabilities the coordination skills needed to feed themselves, use a computer, or increase the speed and legibility of their handwriting
- evaluate a child's need for specialized equipment, such as wheelchairs, splints, bathing equipment, dressing devices, or communication aids
- work with kids who have sensory and attentional issues to improve focus and social skills.