Occupational therapy
Occupational therapists can assist children in many areas of development, including with play skills, self-help skills, fine and gross motor skill development and sensory sensitivities.
About KU occupational therapists
KU occupational therapists are highly skilled and experienced professionals who can provide therapy to support children (up to the age of 9 years) with:
- developing fine motor skills so they can grasp, manipulate and release toys and set up skills for school and handwriting
- building on motor and coordination skills for play and school activities
- increasing independence in self-care activities such as dressing, toileting and sleep
- supporting behaviour and managing emotions
- supporting their sensory needs
- fostering social skills for play and friendships
When might a child need occupational therapy?
Children may benefit from a professional assessment or speech therapy support if:
A baby:
- has been late with milestones such as reaching, grasping, sitting, crawling or walking
- displays differences in social development and behaviour in social situations
A toddler/child:
- is having difficulty toilet training
- doesn’t like certain textures, noises, lights or clothing
- is having difficulty with everyday activities such as dressing, eating and sleeping
- has difficulty following directions
- is easily distracted
- frustrates quickly and is difficult to calm down
- plays and socialises differently to others their own age
Working together
KU occupational therapists work collaboratively with families and other professionals, as required, by providing tools and strategies to help children meet their individual learning goals and to achieve the best outcomes.
Families are supported to:
- understand their child’s individual developmental needs
- identify goals and priorities to support their child to reach their full potential
- increase their confidence and capacity to implement occupational therapy strategies into everyday routines and activities to support their child
- liaise, when appropriate, with other professionals involved in their child’s care and education
- access early childhood intervention supports under the NDIS Early Childhood Approach (as required)
Accessing support
We recognise the importance of providing children with support where they need it most. Support can be provided from:
- KU’s child friendly clinics located on the grounds of several KU venues in NSW and Victoria;
- within the early childhood education and care service or school your child attends
- at your home; or
- at an agreed location within the local community.
KU is a registered provider of services under the National Disability and Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Speech pathology services can also be accessed on a fee-for-service basis or through a GP-approved Chronic Disease Management Plan.
Locations
Macarthur – Camden area
KU Starting Points Macarthur (on the shared grounds of KU Briar Cottage Preschool)
Address: 14 Waterhouse Rd, Airds NSW 2560
Days: Monday to Friday
Phone: 02 4620 0091
