Kids Can Do Therapy and Wellness

Occupational therapy services focus on enhancing participation in
and performance of activities of daily living (e.g., feeding,dressing), instrumental activities of daily living (e.g., community
mobility, safety procedures), education, work, leisure, play, and social participation. For example,  an individual with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), occupational therapy services are defined according to the individual’s needs and desired goals and priorities for participation.  Occupational therapy services for individuals with ASD include evaluation, intervention, and measurement of outcomes. Throughout the process, collaboration with the child or adult with autism,family, caregivers, teachers, and other supporters is essential to
understanding the daily life experiences of the individual and those with whom he or she interacts.  Occupational therapy services can
focus on personal development, quality of life, and the needs of the family.
The occupational therapy evaluation process is designed to gain an understanding of the individual’s skills—his or her strengths and
challenges while engaging in occupations and activities. The occupational therapy intervention process is based on the results of the evaluation and is individualized to foster occupational engagement and social participation through techniques and procedures directed at the client, activity, and environment. Occupational therapy uses a
variety of intervention approaches to stimulate active engagement in
activity.
Outcomes or progress is noted through improved occupational performance, client satisfaction, role competence, improved health and wellness, prevention of further difficulties, and improved quality of
life.  appreciate success and renew the focus and priorities of the intervention
plan.
Occupational therapists help people with autism find ways to adjust tasks and conditions that match their needs and abilities. Such help may include adapting the environment to minimize external distractions, finding specially designed computer software that facilitates word processing to ease communication, or identifying skills that build capabilities.

             courtesy of AOTA

What is the training required for an Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapy practitioners are skilled professionals whose education includes the study of human growth and development with specific emphasis on the social, emotional, and physiological effects of illness, disability and injury.

The occupational therapist enters the field with a master's or doctoral degree and must be trained from an accredited college or university recognized by AOTA and NBCOT.