Starting paediatric occupational therapy for your child can feel overwhelming. As a parent, you want to understand exactly what’s involved, how it can help your child, and how you fit into the process. The good news is that paediatric OT is not just about helping your child — it’s about working with you, the parent, to build the strongest support system possible.

If you’re new to this world, here’s what you should know from a parent’s perspective — from what happens during sessions to the impact it can have at home, school, and beyond.

Understanding Paediatric Occupational Therapy

Paediatric occupational therapy supports children in developing the skills they need for everyday life. These are skills most adults take for granted — such as getting dressed, writing their name, using cutlery, regulating emotions, or paying attention in class. When a child struggles with these tasks, it can affect their confidence, behaviour, academic performance, and even their relationships.

Occupational therapists work with children who may be experiencing developmental delays, sensory processing difficulties, attention issues, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyspraxia, or emotional regulation challenges. But not every child who sees an OT has a diagnosis — some simply need support with tasks that aren’t coming easily.

What Happens in an OT Session?

If you’re imagining a sterile clinic filled with medical equipment, think again. Most paediatric occupational therapy sessions take place in a welcoming, play-based environment. The aim is to make children feel safe, calm, and ready to learn through movement and hands-on activities.

Typical components of a session may include:

• Warm-up play to help the child settle in and become comfortable

• Therapy-based games and activities that focus on goals like hand strength, balance, sensory regulation, or focus

• Sensory play or calming techniques to support children with sensory processing issues

• Structured tasks that mimic daily routines like tying shoelaces, cutting with scissors, or packing a schoolbag

• Guided social play to help children with emotional awareness, sharing, or communication

Sessions usually last between 30 to 60 minutes. Some children attend weekly, while others may attend more or less frequently depending on their needs.

What’s the Parent’s Role?

As a parent, your role is central to the success of therapy. Occupational therapists will often involve you before, during, and after the session. Your insights into your child’s behaviours at home, school, and in social settings help guide therapy planning.

Here’s how you may be included:

• At the start: You’ll be asked about your child’s routines, challenges, strengths, and goals. Your input is crucial in setting therapy objectives.

• During sessions: Some therapists allow or encourage parents to observe. This helps you understand the strategies being used and how to carry them over into daily life.

• After sessions: You’ll often be given activities, tools, or advice to try at home. This might include strengthening exercises, calming strategies, or tips on improving independence in tasks like brushing teeth or managing transitions.

What You Might Notice as a Parent

Therapy is a process, and while some improvements are visible quickly, others take time. As a parent, you may notice:

• Your child is more confident in daily tasks

• They cope better with change or challenges

• Meltdowns become less frequent

• Handwriting, attention, or coordination improves

• Routines such as getting ready for school become smoother

It’s important to remember that progress looks different for every child. Some may have noticeable changes in just a few sessions, while others may need months of consistent support. The key is patience and persistence — and ongoing communication with your therapist.

Common Questions from Parents

1. “Is it normal for my child to feel shy or resistant at first?”

Yes, absolutely. It may take a few sessions for your child to warm up to the therapist and new environment. Occupational therapists are trained to build trust and will work at your child’s pace.

2. “What if I can’t make time for all the at-home exercises?”

Life gets busy. While home practice helps reinforce therapy, even small efforts make a difference. Your OT will work with your schedule and suggest activities that fit naturally into your child’s daily routine.

3. “How do I know if therapy is working?”

Your OT will monitor progress using developmental milestones, individual goals, and feedback from you. You may notice subtle shifts, like fewer frustrations during homework or improved self-care.

4. “Will therapy interfere with school or preschool?”

In fact, it often helps. Children who receive OT support tend to do better in structured learning environments. Many therapists also liaise with teachers to ensure consistency between home, school, and therapy.

Accessing Therapy in Australia

In Australia, you may be able to access paediatric occupational therapy through:

• The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), if your child is eligible

• Medicare rebates, with a referral from your GP under a Chronic Disease Management Plan

• Private health insurance, depending on your extras cover

• Community health centres or private practices

Therapists can also work with other professionals involved in your child’s care, such as speech therapists, psychologists, or educators, for a team-based approach.

Stepping into the world of paediatric occupational therapy sessions can feel daunting at first, but it’s one of the most empowering things you can do for your child. With support from skilled therapists — and your active involvement — your child can gain not just practical skills, but greater confidence, emotional resilience, and independence.

Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Your child’s occupational therapist is there to support you as well. Ask questions, share your concerns, and celebrate every step forward — no matter how small it may seem.