An occupational therapist is trained to help a child or young person develop or maintain their independence skills. This includes the ability to dress, wash, play, participate in school life and feed themselves. Occupational therapists can work with the child at home, in their school or in the community.
Sometimes a child will need occupational therapy to help them change the way in which they complete an activity, for example by working with them on their ability to coordinate themselves, use their hands, or improve their planning skills. Treatment is usually activity based and play, group or craft activities are carefully used in the child’s programme.
Other children will need the loan of specialised equipment, or adaptations to their homes e.g. grab rails beside the toilet in order to enable their greater independence. Carers may also need to be loaned specialised equipment to move their children safely, or be able to help them bath or sit comfortably. Occupational therapists assess the needs of the child, their carers and the home in order to advise on the most appropriate means of helping each individual. An Occupational Therapist will also advise schools on the most appropriate equipment and adaptations needed for a child.
Referral to Occupational Therapy
If a child (0-19 year old) needs equipment or adaptations to facilitate their independence anyone can refer them to the Children’s Occupational Therapy Team.
Children who need occupational therapy treatment (to help them change their own abilities) can only be referred to the Occupational Therapy Team by their GP, a paediatrician or a paediatric therapist. This service is currently only available to children who are under 11 years old at the time of the referral.
Contact us
Children Occupational Therapy Team
Specialist Children's Service
The Wood Street Health Centre
6 Linford Road
Walthamstow E17 3LA
Tel: 020 8430 7960.
