Many parents are familiar with physical therapy and speech therapy, but occupational therapy (OT) is a lesser-known type of therapy that can be just as beneficial for children with developmental delays or learning disabilities. Pediatric occupational therapists work with children of all ages to help them develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in life.
What Does a Pediatric Occupational Therapist Do?
A pediatric OT’s job is to help children with developmental delays or learning disabilities improve their fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and sensory processing. This may involve activities such as using puzzles or blocks to improve fine motor skills, riding a bike or jumping on a trampoline to improve gross motor skills, or using swings or weighted blankets to help with sensory processing.
In addition to working on specific skills, a pediatric OT also helps children learn how to adapt to their environment and cope with change. For example, a child who has difficulty transitioning from one activity to another may benefit from an OT’s help in learning how to cope with change and adapt to new situations.
Why is Pediatric Occupational Therapy Important?
Pediatric occupational therapy is important because it can help children with developmental delays or learning disabilities reach their full potential. By improving fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and sensory processing, occupational therapy can help children succeed in school and in life. In addition, by helping children learn how to adapt to their environment and cope with change, pediatric OT can reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall well-being.
If you have a child with developmental delays or learning disabilities, consider seeking out pediatric occupational therapy services. An OT can help your child improve their fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and sensory processing—skills that are essential for success in school and in life. In addition, an OT can help your child learn how to adapt to their environment and cope with change, which can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
