Does my child need occupational therapy?

Rachel Cohen, OTR/L

Pediatric occupational therapy provides treatment that addresses and supports a wide range of child development. If you, a teacher, family member, or pediatrician have concerns about your child’s development, an occupational therapy evaluation may be beneficial. 

Reasons your child may be recommended for occupational therapy services include, but are not limited to, delayed or impaired: 

• Developmental milestones- sitting, crawling, walking

• Fine motor skills- holding a pencil, using scissors, manipulating small objects

• Gross motor skills- balance, body coordination, strength 

• Sensory processing skills- responding to sounds, touch, movement, and other sensations

• Play skills- imitating, initiating, exploring, joining in on play activities

• Social interaction skills- sharing interests, taking turns, back-and-forth communication

• Cognitive/learning skills- attention, memory, perseverance 

Challenges in these areas impact a child’s participation in occupations (activities they want or need to do). OT can help improve participation in occupations important to the child and their family.