There are some conditions that hinder people and especially children from engaging in normal daily activities like other children hence affecting their developments. Such conditions may be long term or short term depending on their severity, and can be managed through the use of occupational therapy. Essentially, this method of treatment enables your child to go about their daily routine and participate in every other activity with the independence and ability of a normal child. There are certain features that are essential in making such therapeutic techniques successful, and they are discussed below:
School activities
Engaging your special needs child in school activities just like other children helps them grow their intellectual skills hence they do not feel left out. Provide them with a friendly environment where they can interact with other children and understand that they are not the only ones with such a condition. This way, they gain more confidence and find the appropriate motivation to take on daily challenges such as reading and writing. The most important thing is that they are able to make significant progress, however slow it may be.
Creative activities
Indulge your child in activities that need creativity such as drawing and painting, and engaging indoor games such as brick construction and music formation. just because your child has a special need or is ill does not mean that they lack some sort of creativity in them; all they need is a little inspiration and motivation to understand that they can also function just as other children do. Reward them with presents each time they finish a certain project as this will make them want to undertake more creative projects.
Outdoor sports
Before engaging in outdoor activities, make sure that the therapist approves of it and advises you on the safest way to go about it. by understanding the condition of your child, you will be able to know how to take care of him as they engage in outdoor sports and other leisure activities. With the help of a therapist, identify what your child is most interested in outside the comfort of the house and the school. Once you have found out the ideal activity, take the necessary precautions in making sure that the environment is safe and secure, and will not cause more harm or damage to them. At the end of the day, if it makes them happy, support them in whichever way.
Attending events
Enrol your child in as many suitable competitions as possible, as long as he is comfortable with it. Of course, you have to consult with his occupational therapist and make sure that they approve everything beforehand. Encourage him by being there as he participates, and bring the other family members and friends along to cheer him through. Also, it is advisable that you include your child in all family events so that they can do normal things just the way other normal children in the family do. After all, everyone needs to feel loved and have a sense of belonging. This goes a long way in motivating your child and managing his condition.
