What is OT? How does it apply to children?

    Occupational Therapy (OT) is "the therapeutic use of work, self-care, and play activities to increase development and prevent disability. It may include adaptation of task or environment to achieve maximum independence and to enhance the quality of life."
   American Occupational Therapy Association

Occupational Therapy is for individuals who have functional limitations, which may be caused by an injury, illness, or developmental disorder. People, of all ages, who are not able to participate in activities of daily living to their fullest potential can benefit from OT.

Children have occupational roles (just like adults) and these are the foundation for further skill development.  Early intervention is important when challenges arise. Here are a few examples of occupations or activities of daily living for children.

Ages Birth to Five

Eating
Sleeping
Exploring surroundings with different senses (vision, touch, movement)
Self regulation; learning to calm self
Rolling, crawling, walking
Playing
Development of speech and language
Grooming and dressing self
Building relationships
Pre-academic skills (counting, ABCs, holding a writing utensil)

School Age (five and up)

Mastering pre-academic skills
Mastering dressing and grooming skills
Learning new academics
Focusing and attending in a school environment
Establishing friendships
Mastering gross & fine motor skills
Developing independence
Job skill development