When you’re navigating the early days of an autism diagnosis, words like “therapy” can sound clinical and a bit overwhelming. After learning about speech therapy, the idea of “occupational therapy” (OT) might also seem puzzling. “Occupations” for a child? What does that even mean?
We quickly learned that OT isn’t about getting a job; it’s about making everyday life easier and more comfortable. For many autistic children, simple tasks that seem second nature to others – like getting dressed, using cutlery, or even just sitting still in a noisy room – can be genuinely challenging. This is where Occupational Therapy steps in as a practical and empowering support.
At its core, Occupational Therapy helps individuals participate in the “occupations” of daily life – the meaningful activities that fill our days. For children, these “occupations” are things like playing, learning, making friends, and taking care of themselves.
Occupational therapists (OTs) are experts at identifying why certain daily tasks are hard and then finding practical ways to make them easier. They might look at:
Through individualized strategies, OTs help build the skills needed to make these activities more manageable.
OT offers incredible support, directly impacting a child’s ability to engage with their world and gain more independence:
Making Daily Tasks Easier: OTs work on essential self-care skills like getting dressed independently, managing zippers and buttons, brushing teeth, using forks and spoons, and even things like packing a backpack.
Navigating the Sensory World: Many autistic individuals experience differences in how they process sensory input (sights, sounds, textures, smells, movement). OTs help children learn to regulate their This could involve activities that provide calming input (like weighted blankets or deep pressure) or strategies to cope with overwhelming environments, leading to less anxiety and more comfort.
Improving Hand Skills and Coordination: These are the small, precise movements we use every day. OT sessions often involve fun games and activities that strengthen hand muscles, improve dexterity, and enhance hand-eye coordination for tasks like writing, cutting, or building with blocks.
Building Confidence and Independence: By addressing these underlying challenges, OT ultimately helps children engage more effectively and independently at home, at school, and in the community.
Just like with speech therapy, especially for younger children, OT sessions are highly hands-on and often feel like purposeful play. You might see an OT using swings or crash pads to address sensory needs, playing board games or puzzles to improve fine motor skills, or using visual schedules to break down complex routines like getting ready for school. The focus is always on making daily tasks easier and more manageable, integrating activities that are relevant and motivating for the child.
As parents, we also learned a lot from watching our OT. We picked up practical strategies to:
Every autistic child is unique, and their OT plan will be tailored specifically to their needs and strengths. OTs work closely with families, caregivers, and teachers to ensure strategies are consistent and supportive across all parts of a child’s day.
Occupational Therapy is about much more than just “fixing” challenges; it’s about building foundational skills that unlock greater independence and comfort in everyday life. It helps children navigate their unique sensory and motor landscapes, fostering confidence that allows them to fully and happily engage with the world around them.
Disclaimer: This blog post shares general information and personal experiences about Occupational Therapy. It is not intended to be medical advice, and you should always consult with a qualified occupational therapist or healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific needs.
Next blog in this series: Physical Therapy for Autistic Children: Building Core Strength and Confidence