Occupational therapy for children plays an important role in
helping kids with sensory processing disorder achieve their maximum level of
independence and function. Skilled therapists who have the knowledge, tools,
and expertise to diagnose your child's condition can help you determine the
type of program that can truly help them function well in their home, school,
and social environments. Occupational therapy does not only deal with basic and
practical life skills, but with other aspects of the child's well-being, too,
such as his or her cognitive and social skills.
Even babies, toddlers, and very young children can receive
occupational therapy services. A correct and accurate diagnosis of the child's
condition is important to address every aspect of their disorder. Because
'tasks' of children in different age levels vary—for example, the tasks that
babies have to perform are very different from the work and leisure tasks that
school aged children need to participate in different approaches must be
applied to effectively perform therapy. No matter what the age of the child,
however, therapy is always is recommended.
The key is to find
an occupational therapy service that offers a holistic approach to help
address multiple facets of your child's sensory, motor, cognitive, and
behavioral difficulties. Occupational therapy works to help kids develop the
most basic underlying skills that are necessary for learning as well as
performing specific tasks, while also addressing behavior and social skills. It
helps a child develop self-concept, self-esteem, and self-confidence, in
addition to aiding in the development of their basic sensory awareness, motor
skills, and learning skills to form healthy behaviors. Occupational therapy can
improve:
- Body awareness or proprioceptive sense
- Movement coordination between the two sides of the body
- Motor control and organization, planning, and coordination
- Gross motor coordination
- Visual perceptual skills
- Self-regulation
- Sensory modulation
