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What is Occupational Therapy?

June 6, 2019

What is Occupational Therapy?




WHAT
Does Occupational   Therapy Have 
To Do With
My Child

Your child’s life is made up of   “occupations,” or everyday activities. These occupations may include playing,   learning, sleeping, interacting with friends, eating, or getting dressed.   

  • A toddler’s occupations are to play and   learn to interact with their environment. 
  • A 6-year old’s occupations are to tie their   shoes, play with peers, and do simple household chores.

 Every   child has occupations that they participate in as they grow and develop. We   don’t typically think about a child’s daily occupations until they have   challenges doing them. 

Occupational Therapists support children of all ages by   incorporating the activities that are fun and important to them into the   intervention process to help your child learn age-appropriate, developmental   skills.


WHO   
Are Occupational Therapy   Practitioners


Occupational therapists serve children,   youth, and their families by offering prevention, promotion, and   interventions for your child’s development. 

They are skilled professionals who use   research and scientific evidence during intervention to help your child reach   his or her goals. With a strong knowledge of a person’s psychological,   physical, emotional, sensory, cognitive, and social makeup, OT’s can evaluate   and help to improve your child’s participation in life. 

They promote active participation and   provide ways to overcome any barriers while using a holistic approach.




WHEN   
Does My 
Child Need Occupational   Therapy

Occupational therapists help   children live life to the fullest. 
If you child is demonstrating challenges in any   area of their life, an occupational therapist may be able to help;
  • Does your child  struggle to manage their   morning routine?
  • Can they keep up with their peers in sports or team games?
  • Is your child avoiding trying new foods?
  • Does your child get very overwhelmed at   birthday parties?
  • Does your child have trouble self-regulating?
  • Does your child yell and cry when they have   to try on new clothes?
  • Does your child have a medical diagnosis?
  • Do you need strategies to help your child   with certain skills, like holding a pencil or tying their shoes?

Occupational therapists help your child to   achieve goals and develop life skills. They help your child stay healthy and   productive. They help your child reach developmental milestones and develop   skills to interact socially. They help your child to participate in everyday   activities and provide fun, safe ways to engage in physical activities. 
 
WHERE
Can I receive 
OT Services

Occupational therapy practitioners work in a   variety of settings, including schools, clinics, Head Start Programs,   community centers, hospitals, and homes. Most insurance companies cover   medically-based occupational therapy evaluations and services.
HOW
Do I Contact an OT Practitioner

Call or visit OTA Wakefield-Kingston online   to get started, or ask your physician   about a recommendation for occupational therapy services if your child is   demonstrating any difficulties from what’s listed above. 


Contact OTA Wakefield-Kingston to inquire about receiving an OT evaluation for your child. We’re here to help your child gain self-confidence and independence!

(781)-245-4446

Adapted from AOTA’s article: What Is Occupational Therapy