Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy is a blend of art and science concerned with the “occupation” of daily living. Occupation is a term that is most often reserved for employment or on the job skills; however, to an occupational therapist, occupation is “any skills needed for the job of living.” Some of these living skills include: dressing, grooming, toileting, bathing, self feeding, meal preparation, home making, caring for children, caring for pets, shopping for groceries, driving, maintaining safety, etc. “Play” is a child’s work and an occupational therapist who works with children is interested in helping a child to develop play skills for development.
Some common signs that your child may benefit from an occupational therapy evaluation
- Delayed developmental milestones (for example a child who has not met typical developmental milestones within 2-3 months (rolling, sitting unsupported, crawling, walking and jumping).
- Poor handwriting
- Difficulty with self-care activities (dressing and hygiene)
- Expressed disinterest in seated activities such as coloring or cutting
- Does not seem to interact or play with peers
- Does not play with toys
- Demonstrates limited eye contact
- Constantly on the go or can’t seem to sit still
- Impulsive or demonstrates little regard to dangerous situations
- Limited diet (foods, textures or temperatures)
- Weak hand strength or poor pencil grasp
- Avoidance or distress over wet or messy textures on hands and face
- Extreme fear or typical play activities such as climbing, jumping, or swinging
- Avoidance or distress over activities such as hair or nail cutting or brushing teeth
- A child who’s body appears limp (they appear tired or weak)
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Frequent tripping or bumping into objects
- Difficulty chewing food or overstuffs mouth with food
- Difficulty drinking from a cup or straw
- Any of the above diagnoses
How long can I expect my child to need therapy?
Every child is different. Some children benefit from several sessions while some children may benefit from ongoing therapy. For instance, a child with weak hands or poor pencil grasp may need 3 to 4 sessions with a therapist. A longer duration of therapy, with incremental breaks, may be required in order to address delayed developmental milestones. Therapy is beneficial as long as the child enjoys it and is developmentally gaining or improving skills.
