Occupational therapy for kids is an integral component of their development, aiding children in honing motor and sensory skills while learning to play cooperatively, build self-esteem and cope with life’s demands. Early intervention may help children reach their full potential.
Initial assessments by an occupational therapist will include observations in your child’s home, school and any additional environments such as parties or after-school activities such as movie viewing. They will assess visual motor skills, fine and gross motor functions as well as social/emotional regulation utilizing standard assessments such as 9 hole peg tests or box and block tests and even measuring grip strength using dynamometers.
In order to strengthen their motor skills, children need engaging in engaging activities such as playing catch with a large ball, crawling through an obstacle course and bouncing on a therapy ball. Furthermore, daily “self-care” activities like buttoning a shirt or using the toilet must also be practiced; occupational therapists can teach children new methods of accomplishing such tasks that will increase independence.
Occupational therapists (OTs) can be invaluable resources for children who have sensory processing issues. They can teach them strategies such as deep breathing or gazing up at a lighted ceiling fan when overstimulated, as well as engaging in enjoyable activities that reduce overstimulation – leading to a happier and more peaceful family life overall.