Definition: Although it sounds like it should involve finding a job or developing work skills, Occupational Therapy actually deals with strengthening fine-motor skills like writing, cutting, shoe-tying and using utensils. For adults recovering from an accident or stroke, that may include work-related skills; for children, whose "occupation" is school and play, it will focus more sharply on developmental milestones and skills required for playground and academic activities. Occupational therapists working with children typically use techniques and routines that may seem like play, but are designed to target areas of delay and difficulty. Some occupational therapists are also trained in therapy with a sensory integration approach, which uses play-like activities to help children better process and tolerate the information they get through their senses.
Also Known As: OT
