Pediatric occupational therapy is dedicated to improving children's physical and sensory motor skills. Pediatric occupational therapy is similar to pediatric physical therapy, but it focuses on the upper body (hands, arms, neck, head) and incorporates therapy for children's cognitive and social skills. Pediatric occupational therapists are health professionals who possess a master's degree and certification in occupational therapy for children. They may work in schools, hospitals, clinics, and other children's care facilities. Pediatric occupational therapists help children cultivate skills necessary for long-term success in academic, social, and home environments. While any child may participate in pediatric occupational therapy, it may particularly benefit children with conditions such as:
Pediatric occupational therapists perform evaluations with new patients and their caregivers. Some patients and caregivers collaborate with pediatric occupational therapists to set developmentally appropriate treatment goals. Pediatric occupational therapists may provide the following services and treatments, depending on patients' needs:
Pediatric occupational therapists collaborate with speech-language pathologists, caregivers, educators, pediatricians, and other children's health specialists.
