Occupational therapy for children and young people plays a crucial role in promoting and developing various motor and cognitive skills. Occupational therapy offers targeted support and interventions, particularly for children with developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) and other behavioral disorders. In this article, you will learn more about the importance of occupational therapy for children and adolescents and the different approaches used to promote gross and fine motor skills as well as sensory integration.

Gross motor skills

Gross motor skills include the large movements of the body such as running, jumping and climbing. In children with developmental disorders, gross motor skills can often be delayed or impaired. Occupational therapists work with specific exercises and activities to improve and strengthen these skills. The aim is to promote balance, coordination and muscle strength so that children can cope better in everyday life.

Fine motor skills

Fine motor skills refer to the smaller, more precise movements required for tasks such as writing, drawing and using cutlery. Children with fine motor skill problems may have difficulty holding a pencil or buttoning their clothes. Occupational therapists focus on targeted exercises that promote hand-eye coordination and dexterity.

Developmental disorders and occupational therapy

F82 and autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Children with F82 (comprehensive developmental disorder) and autism spectrum disorder often require special therapeutic approaches. Occupational therapy can help develop social skills, communication skills and sensory integration skills. Through playful activities, children are encouraged to better perceive and interact with their environment.

ADS and ADHD

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affect children's ability to concentrate and impulse control. Occupational therapy offers support here by structuring everyday life, targeted exercises to increase attention and techniques to improve impulse control.

Behavioral disorders and learning disorders

Behavioral disorders

Children and adolescents with behavioral disorders such as aggressive behavior or social isolation benefit from occupational therapy by learning to regulate their emotions and better manage social interactions. Positive behaviors are encouraged through creative and playful methods.

Learning disorders: Dyscalculia, reading difficulties, dyslexia

Learning disorders such as dyscalculia (dyscalculia), reading difficulties and dyslexia (reading and spelling difficulties) can have a significant impact on a child's school and social life. Occupational therapists work closely with children to develop strategies that make learning easier and improve academic performance.

Sensory Integration Therapy (SI)

Sensory Abnormalities

Children with sensory abnormalities have difficulty processing stimuli from their environment appropriately. This can lead to hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to certain stimuli. Sensory integration therapy aims to improve the child's ability to process and integrate sensory information correctly.

Sensory activities

Ergotherapists use a variety of sensory activities to improve sensory processing. These activities can include rocking, climbing, playing with different textures or listening to soothing sounds. The aim is to regulate the child's nervous system and achieve better adaptability to different environmental influences.

Specialized consultations and interventions

Left-handed consultation

Children who are left-handed often need specific support to develop their fine motor skills and work ergonomically correctly. Occupational therapists offer targeted advice and exercises to improve writing posture and make everyday life easier.

Pulse control and action planning

Children with impulse disorders have difficulty planning and controlling their actions. Occupational therapy helps to improve the ability to plan actions and control impulses through structured activities and games. This can be achieved through role play, cognitive exercises and the promotion of problem-solving skills.

Conclusion

Occupational therapy for children and adolescents is a valuable tool for treating a variety of developmental and behavioral disorders. Targeted exercises and therapeutic approaches can improve gross and fine motor skills, sensory integration and cognitive and social skills. Children with autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, learning disorders and other abnormalities benefit significantly.