Understanding Paediatric Occupational Therapy: A Guide

What Is Paediatric Occupational Therapy?

Paediatric occupational therapy supports children to build the skills they need for everyday life — from getting dressed and feeding themselves to focusing in class and playing with friends.
At Access to Therapy, our experienced paediatric occupational therapists work with families across Ipswich, Springfield Lakes, Ripley, Camira, and Redbank Plains to help children develop independence, confidence, and joy in their daily activities.

Our programs are designed to make therapy engaging, play-based, and practical — so children can transfer new skills into real-world settings like home, school, and kindy.

Key Areas of Paediatric Occupational Therapy

Fine Motor Skills

Fine-motor development underpins so many of a child’s daily tasks. Our therapists use games, crafts, and strengthening exercises to improve hand control, coordination, and pencil grip — essential for writing, dressing, and using cutlery.

Sensory Processing

Some children find the world a bit too loud, bright, or busy. Our OTs support children to understand and regulate sensory input through calming and movement-based strategies. This helps with focus, transitions, and emotional wellbeing.

Gross Motor & Core Strength

Strong muscles and balance allow children to sit upright in class, climb on playgrounds, and participate with peers. Through obstacle courses, movement games, and balance work, we help children gain confidence in their bodies.

Cognitive & Perceptual Skills

We strengthen problem-solving, memory, and attention skills that support learning and independence. These foundations are vital for school readiness and participation in daily routines.

How Occupational Therapy Helps Children Thrive

Every child develops at their own pace — but sometimes they need a little extra support to get there. Our Ipswich-based OTs assess each child’s strengths, challenges, and goals, then create a personalised plan that builds on what they love to do.

We focus on:

  • Encouraging independence in self-care and play

  • Building fine-motor and sensory-motor coordination

  • Enhancing confidence and emotional regulation

  • Supporting participation in school and kindy routines

Early intervention makes the biggest difference, and our local team provides family-centred therapy that fits naturally into daily life.

Working Together for Better Outcomes

At Access to Therapy, collaboration is key. Our occupational therapists partner with families, teachers, and other health professionals to ensure consistency and success across all environments.
We also integrate with our speech pathology services to provide comprehensive support for children with communication and motor needs.

Parents receive practical guidance, home activity ideas, and progress updates at every step — ensuring therapy continues beyond the session.

Empowering Ipswich Families Through Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy gives children the tools to grow, learn, and connect with the world around them. Whether it’s tying shoelaces, writing neatly, or joining in playground games, every small achievement builds confidence and independence.

Access to Therapy is proud to serve the Ipswich and Springfield Lakes community, helping families access high-quality, compassionate care close to home.

📞 Contact us to book an appointment or learn more about our paediatric occupational therapy for children in Ipswich.

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the Early Childhood Approach - NDIS

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Understanding paediatric speech pathology