Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy (OT) involves the therapeutic use of work, self-care, and play activities to increase independent function and enhance development. Using purposeful, fun and age-appropriate activities, the occupational therapist assists children in achieving important life tasks.
A child needs OT when his or her ability to participate in and/or perform tasks (e.g. self-care, play, going to school, and social interaction) is affected or compromised by illness, disease, disability, or disorder. The therapy addresses the areas that interfere with the child's ability to complete daily life tasks.
OT benefits a child with special needs by attempting to improve the quality of life for the individual through successful and meaningful experiences. This may be accomplished by working on coping skills, fine motor skills, self-help skills, socialization, and play skills. The therapy may also focus on sensory needs, which may include activities such as massage, firm touch, swinging, and bouncing.
