Introduction to Paediatric Occupational Therapy: What Parents Need to Know

Is Your Child Struggling with Everyday Tasks?

Have you ever noticed your child struggling to hold a pencil, button their shirt, or sit still for more than a few minutes? Maybe they get overwhelmed by noisy environments or avoid certain textures when eating. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone! Many children face challenges with everyday activities, and that’s where paediatric occupational therapy (OT) comes in.

But what exactly is OT, and how can it help your child? Let’s break it down in a simple, easy-to-understand way.

What Is Paediatric Occupational Therapy?

At first, the term “occupational therapy” might sound like something for adults with jobs. But for kids, an "occupation" simply means the activities they do every day—playing, learning, dressing, eating, and interacting with others.

Paediatric occupational therapy helps children develop the skills they need to be independent and confident in these daily tasks. Whether it’s improving fine motor skills for writing, building strength for climbing, or learning how to handle sensory overload, OT is all about helping kids do what they need and love to do.

Unlike physical therapy, which focuses on movement and strength, OT addresses motor coordination, sensory processing, self-care skills, and emotional regulation—all the little things that help kids navigate the world successfully.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from Occupational Therapy

Every child develops at their own pace, but some might need a little extra support. Here are some signs that OT could be beneficial:

Fine Motor Challenges

• Struggles to hold a pencil, use scissors, or fasten buttons.
• Messy handwriting or difficulty colouring inside the lines.
• Trouble with using utensils or opening snack packets.

Gross Motor & Coordination Difficulties

• Appears clumsy, trips often, or struggles with balance.
• Difficulty with playground activities like climbing, swinging, or jumping.

Sensory Processing Differences

• Overreacts to loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures.
• Avoids messy play (paints, sand, playdough) or dislikes certain clothing fabrics.
• Picky eater due to food textures or strong flavours.

Self-Care & Daily Routines

• Finds it hard to get dressed, brush teeth, or zip up a jacket.
• Struggles with organising school work, following multi-step instructions, or maintaining focus.

Emotional Regulation & Social Skills

• Gets easily frustrated or has frequent meltdowns over small changes.
• Difficulty making friends or understanding social cues.
• Struggles with transitions (e.g., moving from playtime to homework).

If you’re nodding along to any of these, OT could be a game-changer for your child!

What Happens in a Paediatric OT Session?

Occupational therapy is anything but boring—in fact, most kids don’t even realize they’re in “therapy” because it feels like play!

A typical session may include:

• Sensory play – Swinging, climbing, or playing with different textures to help with sensory processing.
• Fine motor fun – Activities like threading beads, cutting with scissors, or playing with putty to strengthen hand muscles.
• Self-care practice – Learning how to tie shoelaces, use a spoon properly, or follow step-by-step routines.
• Emotional regulation games – Strategies to help kids calm down when overwhelmed, like deep breathing or movement breaks.

The best part? Therapy is tailored to each child’s unique needs. No two sessions look the same!

How Can Parents Support Their Child at Home?

Good news—there are plenty of simple ways to reinforce OT skills at home!

• Fine Motor Boosters: Encourage activities like colouring, playing with LEGO, or squeezing playdough to strengthen little hands.
• Movement Breaks: Let your child jump on a trampoline, do animal walks, or swing to improve balance and coordination.
• Sensory-Friendly Tools: Weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, or chewy necklaces can help children who struggle with sensory input.
• Routines & Visuals: Use picture schedules or step-by-step instructions to help kids complete daily tasks more independently.
• Praise the Progress: Celebrate small wins! Whether they manage to button a shirt or regulate their emotions better, every step counts.

How to Find a Qualified Paediatric OT

If you think OT could benefit your child, here’s where to start:

• Ask your paediatrician for a referral.
• Check with your child’s school – some schools offer OT support.
• Search online for local paediatric OTs or therapy clinics in your area.
• Join parenting groups for recommendations from other parents.

When choosing an OT, consider asking:

• What experience do they have with children of your child’s age and needs?
• How do they involve parents in the therapy process?
• What approaches do they use (play-based, sensory integration, etc.)?

Final Takeaway

Parenting is full of challenges, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. If your child is facing difficulties with everyday tasks, paediatric occupational therapy can provide the tools and support they need to thrive.

And remember—every child is unique, and progress happens in small steps. With the right strategies, patience, and encouragement, your child can develop the skills they need to feel confident and independent.

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a paediatric occupational therapist. You’ve got this!