Sensory processing
For children who are bothered by noise, clothing tags, messy hands or certain foods, or who crave constant movement and crashing. I help them build tolerance and coping strategies.
What pediatric OT helps with
Does my child need occupational therapy?
Pediatric occupational therapy helps children do the everyday things they need and want to do: play, learn, take care of themselves and get through the day with more confidence. Here's what it addresses, and the signs parents and teachers often notice first.
Signs to watch for
Signs your child may benefit from an OT evaluation
- Avoids or melts down over clothing, haircuts, teeth brushing or messy play
- Very picky eating linked to textures
- Seeks constant movement, crashing or spinning
- Struggles to hold a crayon or pencil, or tires quickly when writing
- Handwriting that's hard to read compared to classmates
- Has trouble with buttons, zippers, scissors or utensils
- Seems clumsy, avoids playground equipment or falls often
- Big reactions to transitions, noise or changes in routine
- Difficulty sitting for circle time or staying on task
- Needs much more help with daily routines than peers
Noticing one or two of these doesn't mean something is wrong. Every child develops at their own pace. If you're wondering, a short conversation is a good place to start.
Areas of support
What pediatric occupational therapy addresses
Fine motor skills
Grasp, hand strength, cutting, buttons, drawing and the coordination behind them.
Gross motor & coordination
Balance, core strength, motor planning, and the coordination needed for playground play and sports.
Self-help & daily living skills
Dressing, utensil use, grooming, toileting routines and following morning and bedtime sequences.
Emotional regulation
Tools to handle transitions, frustration and big feelings, and to recognize what their body needs to feel calm.
Social & play skills
Taking turns, joining in with peers, pretend play and engaging with others at home, school and daycare.
Attention & focus
Sustaining attention, following multi-step directions and staying organized for schoolwork.
Routines & transitions
Getting through mornings, moving between activities and handling changes in routine with less stress.
Handwriting & functional academics
Letter formation, copying, cutting and the hand skills schoolwork depends on.
Who I see
Children I commonly work with
You don't need a diagnosis to start occupational therapy. Many families come to me simply because something feels harder for their child than it should. Pediatric OT also commonly supports children with:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- ADHD
- Sensory processing differences
- Developmental delays
- Developmental coordination disorder (dyspraxia)
- Fine motor or handwriting difficulties
Your next step starts here
Wondering if OT could help?
A short phone call is the easiest way to find out whether occupational therapy is a good fit. No pressure, just answers.