What is Paediatric Occupational Therapy?

Paediatric Occupational Therapy (OT) is dedicated to helping children develop the essential skills needed for everyday activities. This includes tasks like playing, dressing, eating, and engaging with others. Occupational therapists work closely with children to enhance their ability to participate in these activities, supporting them to overcome any challenges they may face.

How can Occupational Therapy help my child?

Occupational Therapy (OT) can support your child by addressing challenges in everyday tasks. This includes enhancing fine motor skills, sensory processing, attention, social interactions, and more. The ultimate goal is to help your child build independence, confidence, and the ability to engage fully in daily activities.

What age does my child need to be?

BrightStart works with children aged one to sixteen.

What conditions and challenges do BrightStart work with?

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Global Development Delay

• Sensory Processing Difficulties

• Intellectual Disability

• Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

• Toileting Challenges

• Feeding Challenges

• Fine Motor Development (FMD) / Handwriting Difficulties / Working on Letter Formation

• Gross Motor Skills (movement, strength and balance)

• PICA (eating non-food items)

• Social Interaction Skills

• Learning difficulties

• Play Skills

Do I need a referral for my child to see you?

No, as BrightStart provides private occupational therapy, a referral is not necessary. You can contact us directly to arrange a consultation.

What does the initial assessment involve?

The initial assessment focuses on evaluating your child’s activities of daily living (ADLs) to identify any areas of difficulty. This process helps to understand their specific needs and developmental milestones. Alongside building rapport with your child, your OT will make clinical observations, engage in discussions with the family to set goals, and collaboratively develop a tailored plan for the next steps in therapy.

How are therapy goals set for my child?

Therapy goals are developed collaboratively with you as the family, and are informed by observations of your child’s challenges. Additionally, we review any existing reports, such as an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), to identify areas that may require further support.

How often will my child need therapy sessions?

The frequency of therapy sessions is tailored to your child’s goals and progress. Typically, sessions are held weekly or fortnightly until the desired goals are achieved. Consistency plays a crucial role in making meaningful progress.

Where will the sessions take place?

Therapy sessions can take place at either your home or school, depending on what works best for your child’s needs. BrightStart charge for travel at 45p per male outside of a 15 mile radius from MK40 3AF. Travel time is charged at 50% of the hourly rate for travel outside of the 15 mile radius.

Do BrightStart work with speech and physiotherapists?

Yes, collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as speech and physiotherapists, is always beneficial. With your consent, I can arrange meetings and share reports to ensure we’re all working together to provide the best support for your child.