What is an Occupational Therapist?
Occupational Therapists are health professionals trained in medical and behavioural sciences, including: neurology, anatomy, physiology and psychology. Occupational Therapists have an understanding of physical, cognitive (mental) and behavioural development and they aim to develop, restore, enhance or adapt a child’s abilities, to optimise functioning at home, at school and in the community. Occupational Therapists work with children who are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing difficulties:
What can Occupational Therapists do?
Ultimately, Occupational Therapists aspire to promote self esteem and quality of life for children and their families. Who might need an Occupational Therapist? What to look out for! |
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Clumsy or awkward movements: Falling or tripping over and/or bumping into people or objects
Avoidance of playing sports Poor coordination: or difficulty with Sport, Playing with balls, Climbing, Riding a bike and/or Coordinating movements of arms and legs Poor balance:
Self Care
Poor postural control
Avoidance of drawing, writing, cutting, craft or other table top activities. Handwriting
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Drawing
Copying
Fine Motor Skills
Cutting Skills
Sensory Processing
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Allied Professions
It is noted that Occupational Therapists work closely with other medical and educational specialists, so that we may provide the best possible care.
It is noted that Occupational Therapists work closely with other medical and educational specialists, so that we may provide the best possible care.
- Developmental Paediatricians are likely to be important to clients experiencing difficulties in all areas, but in particular, those experiencing difficulties with literacy and learning.
- Clinical Psychologists are important in gathering information about a child’s strengths and weaknesses in both verbal and nonverbal spheres, enabling us to be better informed as we plan interventions.
- Physiotherapists are important members of the team for infants and children with muscle tone, strength and coordination issues. They can assist infants reach milestones such as sitting, crawling, walking and running etc.
- Speech Pathologists, are very important too, of course! They can help children with the speech and language components of their play, self care and 'work' roles. Speech Pathologists can coordinate with visual processing intervention to maximise gains in comprehension.