Occupational Therapy for children

Occupational therapy looks at ways we can help children with additional needs carry out key life tasks at home, school and at play. The Royal College of Occupational Therapists has more information about what occupational therapy is.

• Do I need to make an OT referral for support for my child? You may not always need to make a referral to receive support.
• Referral criteria and requesting an assessment Check if you are eligible for an assessment before submitting an OT request.
• Struggling with everyday tasks My child struggles to do everyday things that their friends or siblings can do.
• Sensory processing difficulties (SPD) My child has sensory processing difficulties which are impacting on their participation in everyday activities.
• Handwriting support My child needs support with handwriting difficulties.
• Attention and concentration My child struggles with attention and concentration and/or has ADHD which is impacting significantly on their life.
• Dyspraxia or DCD I think my child has Dyspraxia or Development Coordination Disorder (DCD). How can I get help?
• Accessing home or school My child has difficulties accessing home and their school.
• Concerns about risks at home I am concerned about risks in the home environment.
• Education health care plans (EHC) I need support with an education health care plan (EHC)
• Wheelchairs, car seats and harnesses I need advice on a wheelchair, car seat or harness.