Mastering Independence: OT for Daily Living Skills
A child's "occupation" is to play, learn, and grow into an independent adult. Occupational Therapy (OT) is the bridge that helps children overcome challenges that prevent them from doing these important jobs.
One of the biggest areas OT focuses on is Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). These are the self-care tasks we do every day.
Common ADL Challenges
Dressing
Trouble with buttons, zippers, or putting shoes on the correct feet due to fine motor or planning issues.
Feeding
Messy eating, difficulty using utensils, or refusal to eat certain textures.
Grooming
Hating the feeling of a toothbrush, hairbrush, or nail clipper (sensory sensitivity).
Toileting
Difficulty with the steps involved or fear of the flush sound.
How Therapists Help
An Occupational Therapist breaks down each task into tiny, manageable steps (a process called chaining). They also suggest adaptive tools, such as:
- Weighted silverware for steadier eating.
- Button hooks for easy dressing.
- Visual schedules to help remember the steps of brushing teeth.
By mastering these small tasks, a child gains immense confidence. They feel capable, and that confidence spills over into school and social interactions.