If you’ve recently searched for paediatric occupational therapy near me, you’re likely seeking support for your child’s development, behaviour, or everyday functioning. But what exactly does a paediatric occupational therapist offer? What types of services and therapies can you expect?
Paediatric occupational therapy is a specialised area focused on helping children build the skills they need for everyday life — whether at home, in the classroom, or within the community. In this blog, we break down the core services provided by paediatric OTs, so you can better understand how this therapy can benefit your child.
Understanding Paediatric Occupational Therapy
What Is Paediatric OT All About?
Paediatric occupational therapy supports children who are having difficulty with key tasks or developmental milestones. Whether a child is struggling with handwriting, attention, sensory challenges, or social interaction, an occupational therapist works with them to strengthen these areas using structured, play-based techniques.
The therapy is always tailored to the individual child’s needs and goals, and therapists often involve parents in the process to ensure progress continues beyond the clinic.
Core Services Offered in Paediatric Occupational Therapy
1. Motor Skill Development
Children are often referred to occupational therapy if they have challenges with movement and coordination. OT addresses both fine and gross motor skills:
Fine Motor Skills:
Pencil grip and handwriting development
Cutting with scissors
Using buttons, zips, and shoelaces
Manipulating small toys or craft tools
Gross Motor Skills:
Balance and posture control
Coordination for climbing, jumping, or running
Core strength and stamina
Body awareness in space
Therapists often use obstacle courses, games, and sensory play to support motor development.
2. Sensory Integration and Regulation
Many children experience sensory processing difficulties — meaning they over- or under-react to sensory input such as touch, sound, movement, or light. This can make everyday experiences challenging.
Services may include:
Sensory profiling and assessment
Sensory integration therapy
Design of sensory diets (daily sensory activities)
Use of calming tools like weighted items, fidgets, and noise-reducing headphones
Therapists also work with families to create sensory-friendly home or school environments.
3. School Readiness and Classroom Participation
One of the most common reasons parents search paediatric occupational therapy near me is to prepare their child for school or help them succeed in the classroom.
OT support includes:
Developing handwriting skills and visual-motor integration
Improving attention and task-following
Building sitting tolerance and classroom behaviour
Navigating routines and transitions
Supporting group interaction and turn-taking
Therapists may also communicate with teachers to suggest classroom accommodations or strategies.
4. Self-Care and Independence Skills
OTs aim to help children become as independent as possible in their daily lives. This is especially important for kids with developmental delays or disabilities.
Self-care goals might focus on:
Dressing and undressing
Brushing teeth and hair
Feeding with cutlery
Managing toileting needs
These tasks are broken down into manageable steps, often using visuals or reward systems to build confidence.
5. Emotional Regulation and Behavioural Support
Children who struggle with emotional outbursts, anxiety, or frustration may benefit from occupational therapy. Therapists work on:
Identifying triggers and early warning signs
Teaching calming and self-regulation techniques
Developing impulse control and coping strategies
Encouraging emotional expression through play, drawing, or storytelling
This kind of support can make a big difference for children with ADHD, autism, or anxiety.
6. Social Skills Development
Interacting with peers isn’t always easy, especially for children with social communication challenges. Paediatric OTs offer services to help children:
Understand body language and facial expressions
Practise conversation skills
Navigate group play and team activities
Build confidence in unfamiliar social settings
These sessions may involve one-on-one support or group therapy formats, depending on the child’s needs.
What to Expect From Your Local OT Provider
A Personalised Plan
When you reach out for paediatric occupational therapy near me, the therapist will start with a comprehensive assessment. This includes:
Understanding your child’s developmental history
Observing how they complete everyday tasks
Discussing your concerns as a parent
Setting achievable, family-centred goals
A tailored therapy plan is then created and regularly reviewed for progress.
Parent Support and Involvement
Parents are partners in the OT process. Therapists will guide you on how to:
Reinforce strategies at home
Set up supportive routines
Use tools and visual aids
Track and celebrate progress together
Searching for paediatric occupational therapy near me is the first step in finding the right support for your child’s unique needs. Whether your child needs help with coordination, sensory regulation, or independence in daily tasks, paediatric OT provides practical, individualised support that empowers both children and their families.