Paediatric Occupational Therapy Located Near You
Pediatric occupational therapist near me – At South West Sdyney Therapy, we have a special focus on paediatric occupational therapy. Offering comprehensive support to children and their families across a spectrum of needs. Our dedicated therapist collaborates closely with children and their families to enhance fine motor skills, gross motor skills, handwriting, emotional regulation, sensory processing, self-care abilities, and more.
Emotional & Sensory Regulation Therapy
Sensory Regulation:
Sensory regulation is particularly important for children who experience sensory processing challenges, such as those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or sensory processing disorder (SPD). These kids may over- or under-react to sensory stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. An OT helps identify the specific sensory triggers and creates personalised strategies for managing these sensitivities. Techniques may include the use of sensory tools, like deep pressure or noise-canceling headphones, and activities that improve sensory integration, such as swinging, deep pressure activities, or rhythmic movements. Over time, this helps the nervous system adapt and respond more appropriately to sensory inputs, reducing anxiety and discomfort.
Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation therapy focuses on helping children identify, understand, and manage their emotions in a healthy way. An Occupational Therapist may use techniques like cognitive-behavioural strategies, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises to teach kids how to cope with stress, anger, or sadness. This type of therapy is valuable for littlies with emotional dysregulation, which can manifest in conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Children who have also experienced trauma can display traits of emotional dysregulation. Emotional regulation strategies may include teaching self-soothing techniques, developing problem-solving skills, and building emotional awareness to reduce impulsive reactions and increase emotional resilience.
The Impact of Occupational Therapy
Emotional and sensory regulation therapy aims to improve overall well-being by addressing the underlying difficulties with sensory processing and emotional responses. For children, this can lead to better focus in school, improved social interactions, and increased self-confidence. For adults, it can result in better coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and overwhelming situations, allowing for greater independence in daily activities. By working with an OT, individuals can build a foundation for long-term emotional stability and sensory adaptability, ultimately leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Kassandra has also been trained in utilising Zones of Regulation, We Thinkers and Social Detective to support children with their emotional regulation and support development of their social skills.
Fine & Gross Motor Skill Development
Fine and gross motor therapy, facilitated by an occupational therapist (OT), is essential for children who experience difficulties with motor skills, impacting their ability to perform everyday tasks including functioning at kindy or school. Fine motor skills involve smaller movements, such as those required for writing, using utensils, or buttoning clothes, while gross motor skills involve larger movements like walking, jumping, or throwing a ball. OT therapy in both areas can enhance coordination, strength, and independence in daily life, which our team can help you in your home if you live in the Oran Park, Gregory Hills, Narellan, Mount Annan, Gledswood Hills as well as the regions around Camden.
Fine Motor Therapy
Fine motor skills require precision and coordination of the small muscles, particularly in the hands and fingers. Children with conditions such as developmental delays, cerebral palsy, or dyspraxia may struggle with tasks requiring fine motor control. An OT works with clients to develop these skills through targeted activities that improve dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and strength. Tasks like threading beads, manipulating small objects, or using tweezers help refine movements. For children, learning to write or draw can be a focus, while for adults, the therapy may involve improving the ability to use tools or perform daily self-care tasks like grooming or dressing. By enhancing fine motor skills, kids gain greater autonomy and confidence in managing daily responsibilities.
Gross Motor Therapy
Gross motor (GM) skills are essential for overall mobility and involve larger muscle groups in the arms, legs, and core. Children with conditions like muscular dystrophy, brain injuries, or developmental coordination disorder (DCD) may experience difficulties with balance, strength, and coordination. An Occupational Therapist designs therapy sessions to help improve these large movements through activities such as obstacle courses, jumping, balancing exercises, and core strengthening tasks. These exercises enhance balance, stability, and coordination, helping individuals become more capable of navigating their environment and performing physical activities like climbing stairs or riding a bike. Gross motor therapy is particularly important for children developing basic physical skills and for adults recovering from injuries or illnesses that affect mobility.
The Impact of OT
Fine and gross motor therapy plays a crucial role in improving a child’s ability to perform daily activities, from self-care to recreational pursuits. For children, these therapies can lead to better school performance, improved play skills, and greater social interaction. For adults, motor therapy can aid in recovery from injury, enhance physical independence, and improve overall quality of life. By working with an occupational therapist, individuals build the necessary motor skills to increase their physical capabilities, improve confidence, and foster independence in daily activities.
Contact us today to book your appointment with your expert local pediatric OT.
School based Occupational Therapy
School-Based OT is a Powerful Way to Support Children’s Development
School-based occupational therapy (OT) is a uniquely powerful approach to helping children develop the skills they need to thrive—not just academically, but socially, emotionally, and physically. Rooted in the natural environment where children spend a large portion of their day, this model of therapy offers numerous benefits that make it both impactful and practical. We are currently supporting children at schools in the Oran Park, Gregory Hills, Bringelly, Catherine Field, Harrington Park, Gledswood Hills, Narellan, Cobbitty, Curran Hills & Harrington Park NSW.
Therapy Where Real Life Happens
One of the biggest strengths of school-based OT is that it’s embedded in a child’s daily routine and real-world environment. Whether a child is learning to hold a pencil correctly, navigate social situations, or manage sensory input, the school setting allows therapists to work directly on the tasks and in the spaces where these challenges occur. That means therapy can be tailored to the exact context in which skills are needed—hallways, classrooms, playgrounds, cafeterias—all become natural therapy zones.
Boosting Function in Everyday Tasks
Occupational therapists in schools focus on improving a child’s function in daily school tasks: writing, cutting, organizing materials, paying attention, managing emotions, and participating in class activities. These are more than just academic skills—they’re life skills. When kids gain competence in these areas, it often leads to improved confidence, independence, and engagement across the board.
A Collaborative, Holistic Approach
School-based OT is a team effort. Therapists often collaborate with teachers, parents, counselors, and other school staff to create a holistic support system around the child. This team approach ensures that therapy goals are reinforced across environments, making progress more consistent and meaningful. It also helps create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
Accessibility and Equity
Because therapy happens within the school, it removes barriers like transportation or scheduling conflicts that can arise with clinic-based services. School OT makes it easier for families to access the help their child needs—especially in underserved or rural communities—making it a more equitable model of care.
Not Just for Struggles—Also for Strengths
Another wonderful aspect of school-based OT is its focus on strengths. Therapists don’t just work on “fixing problems”—they identify what kids are already good at and use those strengths as a foundation for growth. This strengths-based lens helps kids feel empowered rather than singled out, and it makes therapy feel more like fun than work.