When your child is undergoing occupational therapy for autism, it’s natural to want to see measurable improvements and know that their sessions are making a real difference. Occupational therapy (OT) focuses on helping children develop the skills needed for everyday life — from fine motor coordination and self-care to sensory processing and social participation. But how do you, as a parent, track progress effectively and stay actively involved in your child’s journey?
Here’s a practical guide to understanding and monitoring your child’s progress in occupational therapy.
Why Tracking Progress Matters
Monitoring your child’s development in OT not only keeps you informed but also helps ensure the therapy plan stays aligned with your child’s evolving needs. Regular tracking supports collaboration between parents, therapists, and educators. It also empowers you to celebrate milestones and adjust strategies where needed, which is especially important for children on the autism spectrum who may respond uniquely to different interventions.
Key Ways to Track Your Child’s OT Progress
1. Review Therapy Goals and Benchmarks
At the beginning of therapy, your occupational Therapist will set specific, measurable goals tailored to your child’s needs. These might include learning to button a shirt, write legibly, or tolerate different textures.
Tip: Request a written copy of the therapy plan. Ensure you understand both the short-term and long-term goals. Review them every few weeks to assess what has been achieved and what still requires improvement.
2. Use a Progress Journal or Tracking Sheet
Keep a dedicated notebook or digital document to log your child’s development. Note specific skills, changes in behaviour, and any new challenges that arise.
What to track:
- Improvements in fine or gross motor skills
- Tolerance for sensory input (e.g., noise, textures)
- Social or communication advancements
- Levels of independence in daily tasks
Tip: Ask the Therapist for a simple checklist or create your own based on the therapy goals.
3. Attend Regular Progress Meetings
Most occupational therapists offer scheduled parent meetings or progress reviews to discuss the child’s progress and development. Don’t miss these opportunities. They allow you to discuss your observations, ask questions, and understand your child’s performance from a professional viewpoint.
Tip: Bring your notes and observations to these meetings. They’re valuable when discussing strategies and goals.
4. Observe Therapy Sessions (When Possible)
Many clinics offer parent observation, either directly or through one-way mirrors. Watching the session can provide real-time insight into how your child interacts with the Therapist and engages with tasks.
Tip: Ask your Therapist if you can observe occasionally or receive video summaries if direct viewing isn’t an option.
5. Communicate Openly with the Therapist
Therapists value input from parents. They spend only a few hours a week with your child, while you observe them daily.
Tip: Share updates on how your child is doing at home and school. Any behavioural changes, setbacks, or successes are relevant and help the Therapist adjust treatment strategies accordingly.
6. Look for Generalisation of Skills
Progress isn’t just about what your child can do in therapy — it’s about applying those skills in daily life. Can they use their fine motor skills to tie shoelaces at home? Are they better able to tolerate loud noises at school?
Tip: Take note of where and when new skills emerge in real-world settings. This is a strong sign that therapy is working.
Final Thought
Tracking your child’s progress in occupational therapy for autism is a collaborative effort that combines professional guidance with daily parental insight. By staying involved, asking the right questions, and documenting both significant achievements and minor improvements, you’ll gain a clearer picture of your child’s growth. Remember, progress in therapy can be gradual, but with consistent support and tracking, each step forward brings your child closer to greater independence and confidence in everyday life.