As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. So, when you start noticing that your little one isn’t quite hitting the same milestones as other kids their age, maybe they’re not crawling yet, having trouble with feeding, or struggling to sit still, it’s natural to feel a little worried. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to wait and wonder. Early intervention, especially through Occupational Therapy (OT), can make a big difference, and often sooner than you think.
What exactly is Occupational Therapy for kids?
Occupational therapy helps children develop the everyday skills they need to help them learn, play, and feel comfortable within different environments. That could be anything from holding a spoon, climbing stairs, or getting dressed, to regulating big emotions, staying focused, or interacting with others. OT isn’t just about fine motor skills. It looks at the whole child, including how they move, respond to sensory input (like sounds or textures), manage frustration, and engage with the world around them.
Why “early” makes a big difference
The early years is from birth to age five, this is the time of incredible brain growth. This is when your child’s brain is most flexible and ready to learn new skills. That’s why early support can lead to big improvements, both short- and long-term.
Here’s how early OT can help:
1. Fills in gaps before they grow
Sometimes when a child is delayed in one area (say, motor skills), it can lead to challenges in other areas too, like play, learning, or making friends. OT works to strengthen those foundational skills before they snowball into bigger struggles.
2. Taps into the brain’s natural flexibility
Young children’s brains are wired for learning and adapting. Starting OT early takes advantage of this natural window for growth.
3. Builds confidence and independence
Let’s face it, kids want to do things on their own. Whether it’s zipping their jacket, feeding themselves, or joining in during circle time, OT helps them gain the skills (and confidence) to do just that all by themselves.
4. Eases the transition to school and new years of school
Things like holding a pencil, paying attention, following instructions, or dealing with frustration, new teachers or peers, these are all areas where OT can help. Starting early can make the school years a smoother ride for everyone.
5. Supports YOU, the parent
One of the most powerful parts of OT? It doesn’t just support your child, it supports you, and your child’s family too. Occupational therapists work with parents to provide tools, insight, and strategies you can use at home. You’ll learn what your child needs and how to help them thrive.
Not sure if you need an OT?
Every child develops at their own pace, but here are a few signs that early occupational therapy might be helpful:
– Delays in crawling, walking, or using their hands
– Trouble with eating or transitioning to solid foods
– Difficulty calming down or frequent meltdowns
– Overreaction to sounds, lights, or textures
– Trouble with attention, play, or social interaction
– Awkward movements, frequent tripping, or poor coordination
– Frustration with everyday tasks like dressing or holding a crayon
If anything on this list sounds familiar, trust your gut. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to seek support.
You are not alone, reach out for support
Reaching out for early intervention doesn’t mean something is “wrong.” It simply means your child might need a little extra help in certain areas, and there are professionals trained to provide just that. Occupational therapy is usually play-based, engaging, and personalized to your child’s needs and interests. It’s about helping your child grow into their best version of themselves, with the tools and confidence to take on the world, one small milestone at a time.
If you’ve noticed your child is missing milestones or struggling with everyday tasks, don’t wait and wonder. Early intervention with occupational therapy can set your child on a path toward greater independence, confidence, and joy in daily life.
And remember you’re doing an amazing job. Seeking support doesn’t mean you’re failing, it means you’re paying attention. And that makes all the difference. At Prosper Health we offer kids therapy services and we currently have spots available at our Stirling and Booragoon practice for Paediatric Occupational Therapy contact us today for a chat.