The Occupational Therapy (OT) service is part of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to supporting children and adolescents facing challenges that impact their daily lives. OT helps clients develop the skills they need to participate in everyday activities—whether at home, in school, or within the community.

Occupational Therapists work with young individuals experiencing physical, sensory, developmental, intellectual, social, or mental health difficulties. These challenges may impact areas such as self-care, learning, social interaction, and leisure activities. OTs help in skills development and provide practical strategies, modifications, and adaptations to promote meaningful participation.

The Occupational Therapy approach is family- and person-centred. OT focuses on the unique goals of each young person and the environments in which they live, learn, and play. OT also supports parents, caregivers, and educators in managing and overcoming daily functional challenges. Collaboration with schools and community services ensures a coordinated and holistic support system.

What to Expect After Referral

After a referral is submitted:

1. Questionnaires are sent to caregivers to collect background information and specific occupational concerns.
2. Once completed and returned, caregivers will be contacted to schedule an assessment appointment.
3. Two occupational therapists will conduct a 1-hour assessment including:
   • Parent/caregiver interview
   • Standardised testing
   • Structured observations
4. A detailed report is compiled and sent to caregivers.

If therapy is needed, sessions are arranged on an individual or group basis, and goals are set collaboratively between the therapist and the caregiver. Referrals to other specialised OT services or professionals may also be made if appropriate.

The intervention may also include:

• Seating assessments to ensure correct posture and mobility
• Home and school visits to recommend the use of assistive devices and environmental changes to support function
• Pre-vocational assessments and skills training
• Liaison and joint sessions with other professions and services as necessary

How Can Paediatric Occupational Therapy Help My Child?

A Paediatric OT helps children develop the skills they need to grow, learn, and participate as fully and independently as possible in everyday life. This includes areas like play, self-care (eating, dressing, toileting), movement, learning, and social interaction.

If your child has challenges related to physical ability, sensory processing, attention, behaviour, or coordination, an occupational therapist can:

• Support Independence: Help your child learn everyday tasks such as dressing, feeding, or using the toilet.
• Improve Motor Skills: Develop strength, coordination, and control for activities like writing, cutting, and climbing.
• Enhance Learning: Address attention, organisation, and classroom participation through practical strategies and adaptations.
• Build Confidence: Support your child to feel more successful and confident in doing things on their own.
• Provide Equipment and Adaptations: Recommend tools like special seating, utensils, or learning aids to make daily activities easier.
• Work with You and the School: Collaborate with families, teachers, and other professionals to create a consistent support plan that works at home and school.

Every child is different, so OT focuses on what matters most to your child and family, working towards meaningful and achievable goals