What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy helps children and young people to build the skills and strategies needed for daily life — from tying shoelaces and writing, to managing routines and emotions, to engaging in meaningful activities as they grow older. We work closely with families, schools, and other professionals to create practical, individualised plans.
OT also supports adults, helping people to rebuild or adapt their daily lives following challenges such as illness, injury, or changes in mental health. This may include developing strategies for managing routines, supporting return to work, enhancing independence at home, or re-engaging in meaningful social and leisure activities.
Occupational Therapy compliments psychology by helping children, young people, and families develop the practical and emotional skills needed for daily life. With a focus on independence, confidence, and meaningful participation at home, school, and in the community, our goal is to empower families through evidence-based assessment, tailored intervention, and collaborative care.
What can occupational therapy help me with?
Self-Care Skills
A paediatric OT can work with children on everyday activities that promote independence and self-esteem. Goals are tailored to the child’s needs and may include:
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Dressing and undressing
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Tying shoelaces and managing fastenings (buttons, zips, buckles)
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Toileting and hygiene routines
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Using cutlery, preparing simple snacks, and opening lunchboxes
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Developing morning and bedtime routines
Emotional and Sensory Regulation
Children often present with challenges in managing emotions, attention, and sensory input. OT can:
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Support children to develop calming, alerting, and self-regulation strategies
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Help families and schools understand sensory processing needs (e.g., tactile sensitivity, movement seeking, noise sensitivity)
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Co-create personalised “sensory diets” or regulation plans
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Enhance resilience and participation in both structured and unstructured settings
Fine and Gross Motor Development
OT intervention can support the building blocks of physical and cognitive development, including:
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Fine motor skills: handwriting, scissor use, drawing, puzzles, construction play, organising belongings, tool use
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Gross motor skills: balance, coordination, ball skills, core strength, posture, playground skills, cycling
Organisation & Daily Living Skills
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Time management, planning, and building routines
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Following instructions and staying on task
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Organising schoolwork, bags, and personal belongings
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Learning independence with chores, travel, and community skills
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Support for teenagers and young adults with study skills, workplace routines, and participation in meaningful activities
Our Occupational Therapy Services:
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Comprehensive assessment and screening, with written reports
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Individual therapy programs tailored to child's goals and family priorities
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Consultation and advice for families
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Parent education and coaching to empower families in supporting progress
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School/teacher training and coaching to promote inclusion and independence in educational settings
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Signpost to other services (speech therapy, psychology, physiotherapy, medical professionals) where needed.
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School and home guidance and modifications to maximise participation and independence