Occupational therapy (OT)
Occupational therapists are professionals who specialize in the evaluation and treatment of fine motor skills, perceptual motor skills, sensorimotor skills, social interaction, upper extremity abilities and functional skills of children (newborns through teens).
Occupational therapists
- Improve upper extremity muscle strength, endurance, range of motion, coordination, fine motor abilities and function
- Increase independence in self care skills
- Recommend strategies for managing emerging or decreased function and movement, which may include assistive equipment
- Improve ability to regulate emotional state and behavior by treating sensory processing disorders
- Improve social interaction skills with peers
- Collaborate with caregivers and child to create effective carry over from the clinic to home
- Consult with other professionals regarding the role of occupational therapy and how it can improve the child's participation in daily life