Children's Occupational Therapy
More information coming soon...
Transferable Skills from Neurological Rehabilitation to Paediatric Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapists with experience in neurological rehabilitation bring a rich and versatile skill set that translates seamlessly into working with children. While the client group may differ, the core principles of occupational therapy—promoting independence, participation, and well-being—remain the same.
Here are some key transferable skills and approaches:
1. Activity Analysis
OTs are experts in breaking down tasks to understand where and why an activity may be challenging. In neurological rehab, this might involve analysing how a stroke survivor struggles with dressing. With children, the same skill helps identify barriers to play, learning, or self-care—whether due to motor, sensory, or cognitive difficulties.
- Identifying the point of breakdown in an activity
- Adapting tasks to match developmental or functional levels
- Supporting skill development through graded challenges
2. Postural Management
Postural control is foundational to function. OTs with neuro experience are skilled in assessing and managing posture to support movement, stability, and engagement in activities.
- Applying knowledge of tone, alignment, and positioning
- Supporting children with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or developmental delay
- Advising on seating, mobility aids, and therapeutic positioning
3. Neurological Rehabilitation Principles
Understanding the brain and nervous system is central to both adult and paediatric OT. Therapists trained in neuro rehab bring:
- Insight into motor learning and neuroplasticity
- Experience with sensory integration and regulation
- Strategies for managing fatigue, attention, and executive function
These principles are especially valuable when working with children with acquired brain injuries, developmental coordination disorder (DCD), or autism spectrum conditions.
4. Creativity and Adaptability
OTs are naturally creative problem-solvers. Transitioning from adult to paediatric practice involves adapting therapeutic techniques to be engaging and age-appropriate.
- Using play as a therapeutic tool
- Building rapport and confidence through fun, meaningful activities
- Translating adult rehab strategies into child-friendly formats
5. Confidence Building and Emotional Support
Whether working with adults recovering from stroke or children navigating developmental challenges, OTs foster confidence and emotional resilience.
- Supporting self-esteem and independence
- Encouraging participation in social and educational settings
- Helping children and families understand and manage challenges
Personal Interest and Lived Experience
Alongside professional expertise, I have a personal interest in Autism and Sensory Processing Difficulties, shaped by my experience as a mum to a child with Autism. This dual perspective—as an OT and a parent—deepens my understanding and empathy, and drives my commitment to learning and sharing.
I am continually developing my knowledge in these areas to better support my own child, and I actively share what I’ve learned to help other families and professionals. This lived experience enhances my clinical practice, allowing me to connect meaningfully with children and their caregivers, and to offer practical, compassionate support.