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Pediatric Occupational Therapists - Des Moines, IA

We found 6 pediatric occupational therapists in Des Moines, IA.

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Pediatric Occupational Therapists in Nearby Locations

Johnston, IA Altoona, IA Waukee, IA West Des Moines, IA Ankeny, IA

Other Providers in Des Moines, IA

Addiction Counselors Audiologists Diagnostic Radiologists Endodontists Intensivists & Critical Care Specialists Massage Therapists Neuroradiologists Occupational Therapists Orthopedic Surgeons Pediatric Hospitalists Pediatric Orthopedists (Orthopedic Surgeons) Psychotherapists Radiation Oncologists Rheumatologists Surgical Oncologists

What is Pediatric Occupational Therapy?

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:

  • Traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions
  • Acquired brain dysfunction, such as stroke or epilepsy
  • Developmental disorders or disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorders or cerebral palsy
  • Birth abnormalities
  • Hand and motor skill conditions arising after surgery

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:

  • Fine-motor skill development, such as techniques for handwriting, typing, and grasping objects
  • Hand-eye coordination practice
  • Sensorimotor skill development, or responding to sensory input
  • Adaptive skills development, such as teeth brushing, bathing, and dressing
  • Assistive equipment, such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, and other devices

Pediatric occupational therapists collaborate with speech-language pathologists, caregivers, educators, pediatricians, and other children's health specialists.