Occupational Therapy

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out for in a Child That May Require Occupational Therapy

Children with Developmental Delay

• Poor sensory integration skills – Thinks that sounds are too loud or soft objects feel hard, hyperactive, excessive salivation, uncontrollable fidgeting, etc.

• Poor emotional regulation – Often angry, anxious, or depressed

• Poor visual perception skills – Trouble with hand-eye coordination, skip words when reading or poor spatial awareness

Children with Poor Fine Motor Skills

• Unable to hold utensils, writing materials or usage of scissors

• Unable to manipulate with toys and puzzles (pulling, unscrewing, threading, pressing, kneading, slotting in, etc.)

• Unable to tie shoelaces

• Unable to write or shows poor handwriting

Children with Poor Gross Motor Skills

• Needs assistance and support to walk to a flat ground or moving surface

• Poor hand-eye coordination

• Poor balance and spatial awareness

• Does not understand concept of left and right

• Shows fear of heights and swings

Children with Poor Attention & Focus

• Poor memory

• Poor time management

• Restlessness

• Unable to keep up in conversations