Occupational therapy is a product of, and is dependent on, social environment that values the individual and believes that each person has the capacity to act on his own behalf to achieve a better state of health through occupation. Occupation in this aspect is defined as the way in which one occupies his time which includes self-care, work and leisure. It may include adaptation of task or environment to achieve maximum independence and to enhance the quality of life. Most often than not, occupational therapy is somehow misconceived as a therapy for adults but there is such a thing as pediatric occupational therapy. And yes, this has advantages to offer.
It motivates children with autism
Occupational therapy is beneficial to children with autism as this aims to help patients overcome their problems by determining what needs, interests and experiences motivate a patient to get better. Plan of care for special children focuses on developing skills that encourage independence in daily activities and other age appropriate tasks.
It improves self-esteem
This treatment helps children with behavioral disorders to become more confident. New skills are introduced to help deal with their problems in a non-stressful way. This rehabilitative treatment then helps children to maintain positive behavior in all environments. Positive ways on how to deal with frustration without hitting or beating are learned.
It encourages social interaction
Playing and all other activities of a child are considered during evaluation. How the child deals with others is also assessed and this will cover stamina and attention span. With this information, the therapist can draw plans as to what method will be used in the rehabilitative plan of the child with the goal of greater social participation and play skills.
It helps in better sensory perception
This includes development of learning, social skills and motor actions. Efficient sensory processing is oriented to the child which eventually helps him function effectively. Fine motor skills are developed to let the child function well in play and in school. Attention issues are handled well thus helping the child to have a better focus and attention span.
It aids children with physical disabilities
Children who are on this situation are trained on the necessary coordination skills that will make them capable of handling themselves. These skills include feeding one’s self, using the computer, improving the legibility of handwriting and improving other existing talents and skills.
It helps children with learning disabilities
An occupational therapist recognizes distractions from classrooms and this can be removed from it or from any learning environment during a session with the child. This means then that the child with a learning disability will have less distraction from school work. Teachers with these kinds of students and parents are taught to give frequent breaks to give weary minds a rest.
It is likewise recommended for children with brain injury
One of the concerns for those children with brain injury is cognition. Therapists need to have the patience to reorient and work with a child properly so that they may be able to deal with frustration that concerns learning. The more a student feels comfortable with receiving assistance with their difficulty, the easier they will learn from the activities that they will engage in.
Pediatric occupational therapy is with no doubt beneficial to children in more ways than you can imagine. You can use the help of a professional therapist to learn more about how it can help you and your child.
