What is Occupational Therapy?

What is Paediatric Occupational Therapy?

Paediatric Occupational Therapy (OT) refers to an allied health discipline that supports children to engage in activities (or 'occupations') that are meaningful to themselves and their families. The primary goal of paediatric OT is to promote a child's independence, developing skills to reach their potential in a variety of environments such as home, school and the community. Therapy and interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of a child, considering their personal factors such as interests, strengths, disabilities and more, and are designed to promote participation in activities such as self-care (e.g. dressing, eating), play, social interaction, school tasks, and fine/gross motor skills. 

Why do we have an emphasis on Goals and having a Holistic approach?

Research has shown that goal-setting is a part of therapy in itself, and increases the clients' chance of success. By collaboratively setting goals prior to commencing intervention, the client, family, therapist and any other significant others know what they are working towards, all are collaboratively kept accountable for reaching success, and together can celebrate when the goals are achieved. 

Your child is unique, and therefore whenever a client initiates therapy at GT, a holistic approach is emphasised. Each session, the personal factors, occupational demands and environments are assessed and considered including, but not limited to, physical, cognitive, sensory, social, emotional areas. By addressing your child's life holistically - involving their interests, strengths, social relationships, and other areas - we are more likely to be able to support your child to reach their potential.