Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Babies and Toddlers

Pediatric occupational therapy (OT) is a type of treatment performed by licensed occupational therapists  to help children (including infants and toddlers) meet developmental milestones, overcome sensory  challenges, and improve their ability to perform self-care, play, and self-regulate. Here is a closer look at  what occupational therapists do and how they could benefit your child. 

1. Addressing Torticollis and Head Shape 

Torticollis and head shape changes are becoming increasingly common and can lead to a wide variety of developmental challenges. Occupational therapists are skilled in working with facilities to provide individualized exercises and positioning strategies to address underlying causes of head flattening, including torticollis, and improve head shape. 

2. Addressing Feeding Challenges 

Feeding challenges can include mobility or strength deficits, anatomical restrictions like oral ties, coordination challenges, and more. OTs trained in breast and bottle feeding are uniquely able to assess these issues and collaborate with other care providers (physical therapists, lactation consultants, pediatricians, and others) to create a comprehensive plan to improve feeding. 

3. Facilitating Gross and Fine Motor Milestones 

Infants rapidly grow in the first year of life and, therefore, are learning an incredible amount of new skills from rolling to grasping small objects. OTs provide interventions that encourage movement and coordination in purposefully playful ways. Toys like stacking blocks and playdough encourage babies to have fun and stay engaged. 

4. Introducing Solids and Managing Picky Eating 

Transitions to solid foods can be nerve-wracking. Whether choosing to use purées, baby-led weaning techniques, or a combination, OTs can support families by providing techniques to introduce various textures and flavors in an exciting and fun way. Creating a positive environment around mealtime allows babies to become adventurous around food and reduce pressure, leading to a well-balanced diet. 

5. Enhancing Sensory Processing 

Sensory processing challenges are experienced by many children and can effect ability to learn new skills. Behavioral concerns are often related to struggles with sensory processing. OTs are trained in guiding families to create a sensory-rich environment to allow children to learn how to explore through touch, sound, and movement in a way that helps them feel more comfortable in their environment. 

6. Building Self-Care Skills 

Self-care skills such as dressing, feeding, and toileting are skills that children learn that promote independence throughout their entire lives into adulthood. OTs focus on breaking down these larger, sometimes daunting, tasks into smaller, manageable steps. As children begin to master these, confidence and self-esteem flourish as well. 

7. Supporting Emotional Regulation and Social Skills 

OTs are skilled in creating coping strategies and developing social skills, which are essential for successful peer interactions. Future social settings such as preschool make these skills even more important. 

As listed, occupational therapy offers a wide range of benefit for babies and toddlers. For more information  on how your infant or toddler would benefit from individualized occupational therapy treatment, feel free to  reach out to us at https://www.yearonewellness.com/contact. Our team of clinicians are pediatric physical/ occupational therapists and certified breastfeeding specialists, and we are here to help! Year One  Wellness offers virtual consultation everywhere and in-person consultations in and around Austin, TX.