Working with Occupational Therapists: Tips to Maximize Your Child’s Progress

13 April 2025

Parenting is basically a full-time job where you wear multiple hats: chef, chauffeur, peace negotiator, human tissue, and—if your child needs an occupational therapist (OT)—you’re now part-time therapist, too!

But don’t panic! Working with an OT can be a game-changer for your kiddo’s growth and independence. Whether you’re just starting this journey or looking to fine-tune your approach, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some practical, effective, and slightly humorous tips to make the most out of your child’s OT sessions.

Understanding the Role of an Occupational Therapist

Before we jump into tips, let’s get one thing straight: occupational therapy isn’t about getting your five-year-old a 9-to-5 job. (Phew, right?) It’s about helping kids develop everyday life skills—things like holding a pencil, tying their shoes, managing sensory overload, or even playing nicely with others without launching a toy missile.

An OT works on fine motor skills, coordination, sensory processing, self-regulation, and all those little things that help kids become more independent. Think of them as life skill ninjas with a bag full of magical exercises.

How to Maximize Your Child’s OT Sessions

Now that we know what they do, how can we make sure your child gets the most out of their sessions? Let’s break it down.

1. Communication is Key (Yes, Even If You’re Running on 4 Hours of Sleep)

The OT is your new bestie—trust me. Keep an open line of communication with them about your child’s progress, struggles, and even those quirky habits (like how your kid can hear the ice cream truck three streets away but “can’t hear” you asking them to put their shoes on).

- Discuss Goals: What do you want your child to achieve? Better handwriting? Less meltdowns in the cereal aisle? Share your expectations early on.
- Ask Questions: If you don’t understand an exercise, ask. OTs are trained professionals, not mind readers (though sometimes it feels like they are).

2. Practice, Practice, and Yep… More Practice

Imagine if you only worked out once a week and expected six-pack abs. Wouldn't happen, right? The same goes for OT exercises. One session a week won’t magically make all challenges disappear.

- Make it Fun: Sneak OT exercises into playtime. If they need to improve fine motor skills, let them play with Legos or string beads.
- Be Consistent: Repetition is crucial. Daily practice (even in short bursts) helps build skills faster.

3. Create a Sensory-Friendly Home Environment

Some kids struggle with sensory processing, which means everyday sounds, textures, or lights might feel like a personal attack on their nervous system.

- Find Their Sensory Preferences: If your child is a sensory seeker, they might love jumping, swinging, or crashing into pillows. If they’re sensory avoidant, they might need quieter spaces and soft textures.
- Use Sensory Tools: Weighted blankets, fidget toys, or noise-canceling headphones can work wonders for some children.

4. Become a Partner, Not Just a Bystander

You know your child best, but the OT has the expertise. When you combine forces, magic happens.

- Observe During Sessions: Watch what the OT does. You might pick up techniques to use at home.
- Be Patient: Progress isn’t always a straight line. Some weeks will feel amazing; others will feel like moving through molasses. That’s normal.

5. Celebrate the Small Wins (Like Really, REALLY Celebrate Them)

Kids thrive on encouragement. Even the tiniest step forward is worth celebrating—whether it’s holding a pencil correctly or putting on socks without a 10-minute battle.

- Use Positive Reinforcement: Sticker charts, high fives, or even a dance party can motivate kids to keep trying.
- Acknowledge Their Effort: Say things like “I love how hard you worked on that!” instead of just “Good job.” Effort matters!

6. Be Realistic with Expectations (Spoiler Alert: Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day)

Progress takes time. If your kiddo is struggling with handwriting today, they’re not going to be writing novels by next week. And that’s okay.

- Trust the Process: OTs have a plan, even if it’s not always immediately visible.
- Look Back Instead of Only Forward: Compare their current progress to where they were six months ago. You might be surprised at how far they’ve come.

7. Get the Whole Family Involved

If your child has siblings, involve them! Turn OT exercises into a fun family challenge. Sibling rivalry can be a great motivator—because who doesn’t want to beat their big brother at balancing on one foot?

- Make It a Team Effort: Encourage family members to cheer on progress.
- Siblings Can Help: They can model behaviors and skills in a way that doesn’t feel like “therapy.”

8. Avoid the Comparison Trap

Every child progresses at their own pace. It’s tempting to compare your child to their peers, but that’s a dangerous game (and usually leads to unnecessary stress).

- Focus on Their Journey: Instead of worrying about what other kids are doing, celebrate your child’s unique strengths.
- Mindset Shift: Remind yourself that success looks different for every child.

9. Self-Care for Parents: Because You Matter Too

Let’s be honest—parenting a child with extra challenges can be exhausting. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to take breaks. And it’s definitely okay to eat that chocolate you hid in the cupboard.

- Find Your Support System: Join a parent group, vent to a friend, or seek help when you need it.
- Celebrate Yourself Too: You’re doing an amazing job. Seriously.

The Bottom Line

Working with an occupational therapist isn’t just about your child—it's a team effort that includes you, your child, the OT, and sometimes even the family dog (because let’s be honest, the dog is always there). Stay involved, make therapy fun, celebrate wins (big and small), and give yourself grace along the way.

With time, patience, and a little creativity, your child will grow, adapt, and surprise you in ways you never expected—and hey, maybe even put their shoes on the first time you ask. (Okay, maybe let’s not get too carried away.