Through an understanding of the impact of disability, illness, and impairment on a child’s development, play, ability to learn new skills, and overall occupational performance, occupational therapists design interventions that promote healthy development, establish needed skills, and/or modify environments, all in support of participation in daily activities.  Occupational therapy practitioners also play a key role in educating parents, caregivers and program staff about child development, and they provide information about disability and diverse learning needs.  Occupational therapists collaborate with parents and other members of the team to identify and conduct appropriate assessments and developmentally appropriate activities; plan and implement relevant intervention strategies; participation in family, learning, and community-based activities; reduce environmental barriers that limit a child’s supports; and identify needed assistive technology devices.

How do I know if my child needs occupational therapy?

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- Does your child have difficulty with basic activities of daily living such as dressing or tying shoes?

- Does your child have difficulty with attention to task? Does her teacher complain about excessive movement in the classroom?

- Does your child have difficulty with fine motor and/or visual motor skills such as handwriting, coloring or cutting?

- Does your child have difficulty with feeding? Does he have a limited number of foods that he will eat? Does he have difficulty with utensil use?

- If your child exhibits any of the issues listed above, they may be a candidate for occupational therapy services.