Occupational therapy (OT) is an allied health profession involving the therapeutic use of everyday activities or occupations, to treat the physical, mental, developmental, and emotional afflictions that impact a patient’s ability to perform day-to-day activities.

When most people think of occupational therapy (OT), they think of adults with physical disabilities. However, occupational therapy is also for children and adolescents. It is a way to help them participate in the activities they enjoy.

Occupational therapy is about more than just aiding in the development of fine motor skills. It also helps children and adolescents learn how to interact with the world around them. It can be used to help with social skills, emotional regulation, and self-care skills.

Who Might Need Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapy can assist children and adolescents with:

• birth injuries or defects
• sensory processing disorders
• Brain or spinal cord injuries
• learning problems
• autism
• 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

Where Can You Find an Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapists are qualified to provide treatment and practical support for all age groups and in various physical and social settings. A setting may include hospitals, clinics, daycare and rehabilitation centers, in-home programs, special schools, businesses, and industries. Many occupational therapists are self-employed or work in private practices and perform educational, consulting, or administrative roles.

How Does Occupational Therapy Work?

#1: Assessment

The occupational therapy process is built around the initial and repeated assessments of the patient. The occupational therapist working with the person who is being evaluated focuses on their efficiency and environmental factors in addition to physical and mental capabilities and problems related to participation in everyday activities. The assessment also includes the use of standardized processes, interviews, observations, and consultations with others involved in the person’s life.

#2: Planning

Taking into account the outcome of the assessment, the plan has short- and long-term goals for the treatment of the individual. The plan should be primarily concerned with the needs of the individual’s personal development stage, habits, roles, lifestyle, and environment.

#3 Intervention

Intervention is goal-oriented and focused on helping people to live more independent lives. These programs are designed to enable the performance of everyday activities and help participants readjust to their surroundings. Examples include teaching handy techniques for performing everyday tasks, providing equipment and techniques for increasing independence in personal care, and helping to reduce physical barriers in the environment.

#4: Cooperation

Occupational therapists understand the importance of teamwork. Cooperation with other specialists, family members, caregivers, and volunteers is crucial to the successful implementation of the holistic approach.

Let Play and Purpose Help!

Play and Purpose offers expert occupational therapy services to help your child grow to their fullest potential. We individualize our services to meet the unique needs of each child, and we are passionate about helping children reach their goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child!

Request a free consultation today!