Most people are not aware what kinds of conditions pediatric Occupational Therapists treat. Pediatric Occupational Therapists work with a variety of patients that require assistance in a variety of areas, such as fine motor, sensory motor, cognitive reinforcement and self-help skills. When these skills are developed, it can enhance a child’s self-confidence and allow them to be successful in school. Occupational Therapists can help access if a child has reached these milestones, that are appropriate for their age of development. It is important to detect these proficiencies early so that the child can advance to more difficult tasks and build upon new skills.
What is Fine Motor?
Fine Motor refers to the having the proper control over small movements. These may include areas of movement in the hand, wrists, fingers, mouth, and tongue.
In early development, children begin displaying these skills in small activities like cutting with scissors, painting, or picking up small objects during play. When a child displays these small milestones incorrectly, Occupational Therapists can help a child develop these small skills so they can tackle larger accomplishments such as handwriting. This removes developmental blocks for the child, so they can focus on the actual task, and not be distracted by the skill.
What is Sensory Motor?
Sensory Motor refers to using the five senses of vision, smell, hearing, touch with other abilities like balance, and proprioception. Proprioception is the capability of knowing one’s space. All of these inputs are important in serving the bases of brain activity and normal function.
A child can find themselves feeling easily distracted, difficulty in their behavioral and emotional responses, and reacting to the sounds or touch. With these extra stimuli, it can be difficult for a child to concentrate and to carry out day to day functions for proper growth. Occupational Therapists help regulate the intensity of sensory input that a child faces helping the brain develop new ways of processing the stimuli. This helps a child to feel calm and safe when they are out in the real in the real world.
What is Cognitive Development?
Cognitive Development is how a child can a create and process thoughts by problem-solving, and in decision making. Cognitive Development is an extremely important skill in facilitating learning. Children need to develop these skills successfully so they can are able to interrupt, understand, and interact with their environment in a higher capacity.
How Important are Self-Help Skills?
Self-Help Skills are skills include both getting ready tactics, including tying their shoes, putting on their clothes, eating and bathing. These skills serve major importance in day to day living.
A child who has undergone therapy can comfortably follow instructions, cope with both negative and positive emotions, and learn the best way to disregard noise that may distract them from tasks. They may develop a sense of understanding how of to play fairly with others and use their creativity. Occupational Therapists can use the help of parents to ensure that the child is receiving the best type of care to enhance their developments.
