Occupational Therapy (OT) helps children who are neurodivergent or experiencing delays in development to facilitate the skills they need for everyday activities such as playing, learning, self-care, and social interactions. OT supports children with challenges in motor skills, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and independence.

If your child struggles with tasks such as dressing, writing, sitting on a chair, using cutlery, paying attention, making friends, or managing emotions, OT may be beneficial. An initial assessment can help determine if therapy is recommended.

There is no specific age to start OT - however, research shows us that the results for children between the ages 0-9 years (Early intervention) are better. If you have concerns, it is best to seek an assessment sooner rather than later.

During an assessment, the OT will observe your child’s abilities, discuss your concerns, and use standardised tests and non-standardised observations to understand their strengths and challenges. This helps create a personalised intervention plan.

Therapy is a long term commitment. The length of the therapy process varies depending on the child’s needs, goals, and progress. Some children require frequent short-term intervention, while others may benefit from more intermittent ongoing support. I like to work with a child for 3 months, before discussing expected timeframes with you. It is not uncommon for therapy to last 18 months to 2 years for minor concerns and therapy can be ongoing for more severe concerns. Therapy is discontinued when a child has reached their goals, is independent in the skills they require or when funding dries up.

OT’s work with children who experience:

• Sensory processing challenges
• Fine and gross motor delays
• Emotional regulation difficulties
• Handwriting and school readiness concerns
• Social interaction difficulties
• Difficulties in developing independence in daily tasks (e.g., dressing, eating, toileting)

Yes. OT’s in the paediatric field specialise in supporting neurodivergent children by helping them develop strategies for sensory regulation, social interactions, emotional resilience, and skills for everyday activities.

You can explain to your child that OT is a fun and supportive space where they will play, learn new skills, and gain confidence. Bringing any reports from other professionals can also be helpful.

Yes absolutely - parent involvement is an essential key to a child’s progress. The benefits of this include modelling and the opportunity to guide you on activities and strategies to use at home to support your child’s development.

You can contact us via info@sensorysmartot.com.au to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to supporting your child’s journey towards independence and confidence.

A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) evaluates an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks and participate in meaningful activities. It focuses on identifying strengths, limitations, and support needs in areas such as self-care, mobility, communication, and social participation. FCAs are often used to guide therapy planning, support funding applications (such as the NDIS), and ensure appropriate interventions are in place. SSOT does provide FCA’s.

A Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA), on the other hand, is used to understand the reasons behind a child’s behaviours, particularly those that may be challenging or disruptive. This assessment identifies triggers, patterns, and underlying causes of behaviour, helping to develop strategies that support positive behavioural outcomes. FBA’s are commonly used in school and behaviour specialist settings to create behaviour intervention plans. SSOT does not provide FBA’s.