Occupational Therapy for Preschoolers: Q&A with a Pediatric Occupational Therapist

The following questions were answered by Synapse’s Occupational Therapist, Kathleen Zintsmaster. We hope they are helpful for parents considering Occupational Therapy for their preschooler.

What are some common concerns that might lead a parent to consider an occupational therapy evaluation for their toddler?

Parents are often concerned with deficits in school readiness or educational skills such as handwriting, self-regulation, and multi-step tasks. Parents also have concerns regarding participation in ADL tasks (dressing, bathing, brushing teeth, fine motor aspects) at this age as well. 

What are the most common challenges OTs address in therapy with preschoolers?

We treat a lot of visual motor or visual perceptual skills at this age, along with deficits in fine motor coordination. We also see a lot of kids struggle with emotional regulation at this age as they interact more with peers. There are so many skills developing at this age. Clients are developing social skills, educational skills, and increased independence. Clients benefit from sensory strategies and sensory breaks throughout their day to be successful. 

What is the “secret sauce” for providing preschoolers with effective OT?

Letting therapy sessions be child-led. At this age clients are really developing a sense of independence and autonomy. The therapist can adapt tasks to address treatment goals. 

To learn more about Occupational Therapy with Synapse Pediatric Therapy, please schedule a free phone consultation.