Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy is a type of therapy that helps people with sensory, cognitive and physical barriers. Autism is complex neurodevelopmental disorder in which the brain fails to function properly. Autistic children have issues when interacting or communicating socially.

It is an overwhelming task to raise a child with Autism but advanced therapies can always help and Occupational Therapy is one of them. It can improve the performance of students since children with diagnosis of Autism find it difficult to integrate inputs.

Autistic children lack proper filters to remove irrelevant information and also develop sensory issues. Occupational Therapy aids the process and helps improve social and developmental growth. It assists a child’s participation in school and social environment. Occupational therapists work on the sensory issues of a child and also take appropriate measures to assist parents and their children. Occupational therapists promote positive behavior, to target child’s social engagement, by working on his actions and reactions. They also work on how the child interacts with the environment around him. This therapy supports full inclusion within the community.

Autistic children can receive Occupational Therapy as a part of their educational plan. Some parents find it convenient to taka the therapy through professionals at home. Students who take this therapy at school easily integrate it with their studies. Schools are equipped with certain equipment’s that can support the therapy by indulging the kids in a professional environment. Small Steps Inclusion Center, Dubai has made the accessibility of Autism related services easier for children.

Following professionals are involved in Occupational Therapy.

• Occupational therapist (OT): An OT has a 4-year bachelor’s degree in a related field (such as biology, psychology, or health science) and a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy program
• Occupational therapist assistant (OTA): An OTA must have an associate’s degree from an accredited OTA program. The help the OTs’s once the plan has been developed. They cannot assess but can help with the procedures.

Occupational therapists work closely with the parents to develop an intervention plan for the Autistic children. It all begins with observing the child and his behavior. Most immediate issues are addressed and a few goals are set. Goals are reinforced with the siblings. Autistic children spend time and play with their children. Using siblings can prove to be really effective for Autistic children.

The plan is designed to cater the problems of each individual. It is divided into three main parts and provides a framework for the therapists to work their way through.

1. Evaluation
2. Intervention
3. Outcome

The biggest advantage of Occupational Therapy is that it improves self- independence. Children/adults become self-reliant with everyday tasks and develop ownership. It helps with internal strength through different activities and exercises. OT can sort out cognitive and physical issues. They also provide support with several evasive issues arising due to neurological diagnosis. One of the most important benefit of Occupational Therapy is building physical endurance for functional tasks.