Occupational Therapy, sometimes referred to as OT, is a health profession which assists individuals with motor issues and behavior challenges in mastering purposeful activities of daily living. Speech & Occupational Therapy of North Texas provides pediatric occupational therapy at its Plano and Frisco clinics.
In our clinics, Master’s level occupational therapists with extensive pediatric experience provide evaluations and then design a treatment plan that focuses on the individual child’s needs. At a foundational level, occupational therapy targets activities that improve the functioning of an individual’s nervous system, strengthening the ability to independently do purposeful activities. For a child, this might include climbing, swinging, buttoning, and drawing, writing, self feeding, or simply blowing bubbles and making mud pies! Play skills are an important part of daily life and social skills for children!
In a clinic setting that specializes in children with developmental disorders or sensory processing disorders, occupational therapists should have additional training in sensory integration theory and treatment strategies. OT’s can then address weaknesses in sensory modalities such as auditory, visual, and proprioception, Occupational therapists also help with awareness of body in space and with modulation of sensory input. Sensory functioning impacts a child’s ability to take in and process information from their world successfully. So it is clear that addressing sensory deficits can be foundational to success in daily functioning.
Occupational therapy, as an allied health profession, is often covered by private insurance, so if you suspect your child may have fine motor or sensory challenges, check with your health insurance plan to see if you have coverage for an evaluation. Early intervention is important so that new skills can build on a good foundation. Complete a language and motor survey at www.speechandot.com to see how your child is doing.
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