575 Menlo Dr, Suite 3 Rocklin CA 95765
Call: 916-287-1914 Fax: 916-258-0054
email: info@buildingblocksspeech.com
Occupational Therapy
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapists help people who have disabilities or difficulties in specific areas (e.g. neurological/cognitive, motor, sensory/self-regulation, visual-spatial/ visual-perceptual, balance, coordination, attention, etc.) to be able to be as independent as possible in whatever they want or need to do.
Why would someone seek evaluation or services from an occupational therapist?
For children, this may be in the form of helping to learn how to self-regulate so that the child is able to participate appropriately in play activities or while learning in a school environment. In addition, children of various ages need to gain certain gross and fine-motor skills to be successful in academic, self-care (dressing, feeding, etc.) and leisure (sports, extracurricular activities, etc.) areas of their daily lives.
Gross Motor
These skills involve large muscle groups and are essential for movements such as crawling, walking, running, jumping, and climbing. Occupational therapists help children improve coordination, balance, strength, and overall body control, which are foundational for activities like playing sports, navigating playgrounds, or participating in group games.
Self-Help Skills
These skills involve the ability to complete basic self-care tasks such as feeding, dressing, grooming, and toileting. Occupational therapists work with children to develop the independence and confidence needed to manage their personal needs, building routines that promote autonomy and self-sufficiency.
Fine Motor
Fine motor skills require the use of smaller muscle groups and are needed for tasks that involve precision, such as writing, cutting with scissors, buttoning a shirt, or tying shoes. OT focuses on strengthening hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, and hand strength to help children become more independent with schoolwork and daily tasks.
Self-Regulation Skills
Self-regulation refers to a child’s ability to manage their emotions, behavior, and attention. OT helps children develop strategies for calming down when upset, focusing during tasks, and coping with frustration or sensory overload. These skills are crucial for success in social situations, school settings, and at home