Occupational Therapy

A child's main job is playing and learning, and occupational therapists can evaluate kids' skills for playing, school performance, and daily activities and compare them with what is developmentally appropriate for that age group.

Occupational therapists are able to:

• Help kids work on fine motor skills so they can grasp and release toys and develop good handwriting skills
• Address hand–eye coordination to improve kids' play and school skills (hitting a target, batting a ball, copying from a blackboard, etc.)
• Help kids with severe developmental delays learn basic tasks (such as bathing, getting dressed, brushing their teeth, and feeding themselves)
• Help kids with behavioral disorders maintain positive behaviors in all environments (e.g., instead of hitting others or acting out, using positive ways to deal with anger, such as writing about feelings or participating in a physical activity)
• Teach kids with physical disabilities the coordination skills needed to feed themselves, use a computer, or increase the speed and legibility of their handwriting
• Evaluate a child's need for specialized equipment, such as wheelchairs, splints, bathing equipment, dressing devices, or communication aids
• Work with kids who have sensory and attentional issues to improve focus and social skills

Occupational Therapy checklists

The Occupational Therapy checklists below are a general guideline to help determine any potential skill areas to address and focus on:

Occupational Therapy Suggested Toddler/Preschool Milestones

Occupational Therapy Suggested School-age Milestones

Occupational Therapy Suggested Sensory Processing Difficulties

The Dimond Difference

All of our therapy services include:

• A comprehensive assessment that includes a parent/family interview, patient-observation, and formal standardized testing
• A written assessment report and therapy plan
• Consistent therapy services
• Personalized, one-on-one therapy sessions
• Continuing family support and education
• Consultation with other professionals who are involved; such as a teacher or psychologist