First of all, what is Occupational Therapy?
OT helps kids play, improves their school performance, and aids their daily activities. It also boosts their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment.
With OT, kids can:
Develop fine motor skills so they can grasp and release toys and develop good handwriting or computer skills.
Improve eye–hand coordination so they can play and do needed school skills such as bat a ball and copy from a blackboard.
Master basic life skills such as bathing, getting dressed, brushing teeth, and self-feeding.
Learn positive behaviors and social skills by practicing how they manage frustration and anger.
(Source: kidshealth.org)
7 Signs Occupational Therapy Might be Needed: For Babies, Children & Teens
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Difficulty adapting to change
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Trouble managing emotions
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Struggles with peer play
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Difficulty keeping up in class
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Trouble with handwriting or scissors
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Poor coordination and clumsiness
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Frequently loses place while reading
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Avoids certain textures and loud noises
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Struggles to maintain attention
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Eats fewer than 15–20 foods by 12 months
Surprisingly, as many as 1 in 4 young children are at risk for a developmental delay or disability. Unsurprisingly, moms usually catch the signs before anyone else.
If your child shows any of these signs they may need Pediatric Occupational Therapy. Talk to their doctor or schedule a free screening with one of our Occupational Therapists.
Click here to read: How To Camouflage Occupational Therapy With Play
Click here to read: How to Know if Pediatric Speech Therapy is Needed
Click here to read: How to Know if Pediatric Physical Therapy is Needed