Occupational Therapy Tips: Where to Begin

Occupational therapy tips in this article can get you started with helping your child learn basic skills and become more independent.

When my oldest son was little, I knew I wanted to do some teaching with him at home.  But the thought of how to do that scared me to death.

If that’s you, don’t worry.  Just take this one step at a time.

And I’ll help you along with way.


Child using crayons

So How Do We Know Where to Start?

Early letter-writingSand or oatmeal are ideal for this activity. Here I'm using dry grits which also work very well.

You start with what they can do, and you build on the skills they have now.

If they can scribble on some paper, and they need to learn beginning writing skills, have them practice coloring pictures.  Gently encourage them to color within the lines. 

And here’s another beginning activity for writing.  You cover the bottom of a tray with sand or dry oatmeal.  Take them by the hand, and guide their finger to write letters of the alphabet in the sand or oatmeal. They can feel the way they’re supposed to write.

Then you can have them sit at a table and practice writing letters on paper. 

Before starting, it’s helpful to learn a few techniques for teaching these skills.  I have an entire section of this site devoted to just teaching strategies.


Getting Help from an Occupational Therapist

Therapy puttyTheraputty is a favorite with kids and great for increasing fine motor skills. It can strengthen the hands and fingers, preparing them to learn writing and other important skills.

If your child doesn’t have an occupational therapist, try to get one if you can. Therapists can provide valuable professional guidance. 

Your therapist will make a list of goals that your child needs to reach. You can choose activities based on these goals. 

It’s also helpful to watch your child’s therapy sessions if possible. This will give you tons of ideas that are well-suited for your child.  You can use these ideas to give your child valuable practice each day at home.

Many therapists have an observation room just for this purpose.  If there is no observation room, you might be able to stay in the therapy room with the therapist and your child.  Talk to your child’s occupational therapist and see what you can arrange.

If your child doesn’t have an occupational therapist, it may be helpful to see my page on goals, which will help you gain focus and direction.   


crayons

More Occupational Therapy Tips

If you don‘t have a therapist, not to worry. Occupational therapy is not hard, and there are plenty of ideas for methods and activities all over the web.

In fact, the Plano Independent School District's Special Education Services has a lot of occupational therapy tips and activities you can try right now with your child.  I think it's a great resource for parents and teachers alike.  Click here to access that resource.

I also have more ideas for occupational therapy on other pages on this site. Click here to access the page where all of them are listed.


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