Choosing Occupational Therapy For Your Child
Occupational therapy is available to help a variety of people who face difficulties with a variety of tasks. For many children, occupational therapy teaches children how to improve their motor skills and coordination. It also improves a child's self-esteem, allowing them to grow better with basic tasks they may otherwise struggle with.
Occupational therapy is great for many children, whether they experience learning disabilities or other difficulties. If you have wondered about occupational therapy for your child, this is what you need to know.
So, What Exactly Is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is a treatment that seeks to address motor skills, both fine and gross. It also provides assistance for individuals struggling with sensory processing, for instance. For example, in occupational therapy your child might learn how to dress themselves, how to write, how to throw a ball, and how to organize a drawer. Therapy sessions involve practicing a variety of helpful skills.
How Do You Know Your Child May Benefit From Occupational Therapy?
There are a few ways you can tell your child may benefit from occupational therapy. For instance, you may notice that your child is very clumsy or has difficulty playing sports and games. Occupational therapy provides help for children to work through these challenges and build coordination.
You might also consider occupational therapy if your child has been diagnosed with visual processing concerns, dysgraphia, dyslexia, or another issue.
Why Can't You Work on Motor Skills at Home?
While your child's occupational therapist may provide your child with exercises they can perform at home, these are in addition to the skills to practice at therapy. The child will be practicing the skills they learned in therapy at home, refining those abilities so they can be used in a practical sense at home or at school.
While it is a good idea to continue working on occupational skills at home, working with a therapist is ideal. This helps your child learn skills in a controlled environment. The therapist also provides the information necessary for your child to gain the basic understanding they need to build a strong foundation.
If you think your child would benefit from occupational therapy, it is a good idea to speak with a therapist. Your child will likely benefit from working with a professional who understands their specific needs. Make an appointment with a therapist in your area to learn more about your child's options.