Occupational therapy (OT) is a branch of healthcare that helps people of all ages who have physical, sensory, or cognitive problems. Occupational therapy for kids is a type of treatment that focuses on how kids carry out activities in their everyday lives. The goal of occupational therapy is to help children develop the skills and abilities they need to participate in all aspects of a normal life. Occupational therapists help with barriers that affect a persons emotional, social, and physical needs. To do this, they use everyday activities, exercises, and other therapies. OT helps kids play, improves their school performance, and aids their daily activities. It also boosts their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment.

Some signs that a child may need occupational therapy include motor skills delays, sensory processing disorders, coordination issues, learning problems, autism, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, mental health or behavioral problems, broken bones, or other orthopedic injuries. An occupational therapist creates activities that help kids find ways to do things that are hard for them because of an illness or disability. For example, an OT can help kids with cerebral palsy who may need to use a wheelchair or other equipment so they can go to school.

Pediatric occupational therapists provide treatment to help children meet developmental milestones, overcome sensory challenges, and improve self-care, play, and self-regulation skills. They can work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and more. Pediatric occupational therapy can encourage children to write with a pencil, feed themselves, and play with their peers, for example. Each child enrolled in pediatric occupational therapy will have their own individualized goals to meet their needs after a full evaluation.

In summary, occupational therapy for kids is a type of treatment that helps children develop the skills and abilities they need to participate in all aspects of a normal life. Occupational therapists create activities that help kids find ways to do things that are hard for them because of an illness or disability. Pediatric occupational therapists provide treatment to help children meet developmental milestones, overcome sensory challenges, and improve self-care, play, and self-regulation skills.