What is Occupational Therapy?

Pediatric occupational therapists specialize in improving a child’s functional participation in their daily activities. Occupational therapists provide support for motor planning, fine motor skills, self-care, feeding skills, social/cognitive skills and sensory regulation. They are passionate about helping each child improve their level of confidence and find their way towards independence.

As a Parent or Guardian, What Can I Expect From Therapy Services?

As pediatric therapists, our relationship with your child comes first. We take time to get to know your child, family, and environment. Our therapists turn work into play using the items and activities your child loves and then work together to find ways your child can continue to learn and grow throughout the week. We believe that you are your child’s best teacher and work to support you in finding ways to help your child meet their goals.

At Spark Home Health, we feel privileged to work with our patients in their homes and communities. This familiar environment ensures a high level of engagement and collaboration resulting in maximum functional growth and development.

Would Occupational Therapy Services Be Appropriate For My Child?

Children with a wide variety of developmental delays and medical diagnoses can benefit from occupational therapy including but not limited to:

  • Neurological Disorders - Hydrocephalus, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy

  • Injuries - Traumatic Brain Injury, Musculoskeletal Injuries, Spinal Cord Injury

  • Genetic Disorders - Down Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy, Treacher Collin Syndrome

  • Birth Defects or Complications - Stroke, Spina Bifida, Torticollis, Fetal-Alcohol Syndrome, Fetal-Drug Exposure, Prematurity, Musculoskeletal Abnormalities

  • Sensory Regulation - Sensory Integration Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder

  • Autism

  • ADHD

  • Any atypical or delayed development in motor skills, adaptive skills, or sensory regulation

How Can an Occupational Therapist Help My Child?

An occupational therapist can help your child with:

  • Sensory regulation - body awareness, high/low sensitivity to environmental stimuli

  • Visual-motor skills

  • Developmental activities (fine motor development and play)

  • Motor planning, motor movement patterns, symmetrical movement

  • Strengthening and flexibility in upper extremities

  • Improved participation and independence in developmentally appropriate self-care

  • Feeding skills