Children grow and learn at different paces, even if they sit in the same classroom. However, there are those who will struggle so much and may need extra help to do simple tasks like holding a pencil and playing with others. This is where occupational therapists step in.
On the Gold Coast, several families seek occupational therapy for their children to help them master a simple daily routine quickly and effectively. Even at school, teachers can advise parents whose children struggle in the classroom to take them to a therapist for the same reasons. This help can make a big difference in a child’s life and completely reshape their future.
The following are ways the therapists assist children to find themselves.
The top six ways kids benefit from occupational therapy services
– Stronger fine motor skills
Fine motor skills refer to the small movements experienced in the hands and fingers. Some children struggle a lot with activities that require concentration of hands and fingers. For example, they may find it hard to cut paper with a pair of scissors or write. So the occupational therapist has the skills and knowledge to help such a child hold things properly with their hands and perform daily routines.
– Better balance and coordination
You will also find some children struggling with more engaging activities like running, jumping and sitting upright. So this therapy can help them to do more manageable exercises at first, as they continue to advance until they can feel comfortable with the more intense exercises. The therapist ensures that the kids have proper balance and coordination to face these challenges.
– Improved social and play skills
For the shy kids, they will find it very difficult to sit in a group or accomplish things as a group. So the occupational therapist helps such a child to develop confidence and self-esteem by encouraging them to work with others. They ensure they lead by example by using themselves as an example to work with other kids to accomplish a small goal. This way, the shy kid will see the value of teamwork and may wish to try as well.
– Greater independence in daily routines
The main goal of the occupational therapist when dealing with children is to help them do simple things by themselves without requiring assistance from adults. Things like eating and bathing should not be difficult for a preschool-going child. Early independence, in turn, allows children to feel free around their peers, and parents will have an easy time when they want to go for an errand.
– Emotional and sensory regulation
Some children may have a hard time dealing with loud noises or very bright lights. This may be due to a delay in the development of their sensory processing organs. When you consult occupational therapist on Gold Coast, they can create sensory-friendly strategies that can help such kids to feel comfortable and focused on learning.
– Support for learning in school
When the occupational therapist intervenes early, they give children the skills they need to keep up with their classmates. The exercises and activities that they carry out help children to feel confident in doing things normally, like their peers in a classroom.
Final Thoughts
Early occupational therapy provides children with the extra help they need to build a strong foundation in academics and life. This can be achieved by improving fine motor skills, balance, social abilities and independence. The therapy also gives families relief by assuring them that their child is doing perfectly fine.


