Every child develops skills at their own pace, but sometimes there are signs that extra support could make a real difference. Occupational therapists are trained to identify specific areas of difficulty and provide intervention that is tailored to a child’s individual goals, strengths, and daily life.
Using a range of evidence-based assessment tools, an occupational therapist can determine a child’s current skill level and help families understand what’s going on and what support might help.
Here are five common signs your child may benefit from occupational therapy.
1. Difficulties with Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor skills are the small movements we use for tasks that require precision and control.
You might notice your child:
- Struggles with pencil grip, handwriting, or drawing
- Finds cutting with scissors tricky
- Has difficulty with in-hand manipulation or controlling objects
These challenges can affect school participation, confidence, and independence.
2. Challenges with Gross Motor Skills
Gross motor skills involve larger body movements and coordination.
Signs may include:
- Poor balance or frequent falls
- Difficulty with coordination or motor planning
- Trouble using both sides of the body together (bilateral integration)
- Avoiding playground equipment or physical play
- Difficulty crossing the midline or establishing hand dominance
Occupational therapy can help build strength, coordination, and body awareness.
3. Visual Motor Integration Difficulties
Visual motor integration is how well the eyes and hands work together.
A child may have difficulty with:
- Copying shapes, letters, or numbers
- Handwriting and correct letter formation
- Eye-hand coordination for tasks like catching a ball
- Drawing or copying from the board
These challenges often show up in classroom tasks and written work.
4. Visual Perception Challenges
Visual perception relates to how a child processes and interprets visual information.
This may look like:
- Difficulty organising work on a page
- Trouble with spatial awareness
- Challenges with copying or recognising patterns
OT support can help improve these foundational skills for learning.
5. Sensory Integration Differences
Sensory integration refers to how the brain processes sensory input such as movement, touch, sound, and body position.
Common signs include:
- Over-reacting to noise, light, textures, or touch
- Under-reacting to sensory input (not noticing smells, mess, or pain)
- Difficulty with balance, climbing, or bike riding
- Avoidance of certain foods, textures, or activities
- Sensory-seeking behaviours like constant movement, jumping, crashing, or mouthing objects
- Difficulty with transitions or unfamiliar situations
Sensory integration challenges can impact emotional regulation, attention, and everyday functioning.
Other Areas OT Can Support
Occupational therapy may also help if your child has difficulty with:
- Self-care tasks (dressing, toileting, feeding)
- Concentration or following instructions
- Emotional regulation
- Executive functioning (planning, organising, flexibility)
- Play skills and social participation
Not Sure? We Can Help You Work It Out
If you’re noticing some of these signs, you’re not alone — and you don’t need to have all the answers.
Our team can help you understand your child’s strengths, identify any areas of difficulty, and recommend supportive next steps.
Have questions about your child’s development? Get in touch and we’ll help you understand the next best step.