Te manu e kai ana i te miro, nōna te ngahere; te manu e kai ana i te mātauranga nōna te ao
The bird who partakes of the miro berry owns the forest: the bird who partakes of education owns the world
Occupational therapy is the art and science of helping people take part in the day-to-day activities that have meaning and value to them. Paediatric Occupational Therapy focuses on helping tamariki develop the skills they need to participate in childhood occupations such as:
- Playing
- Learning
- Eating
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Participating in family activities
- Toileting
Paediatric Occupational Therapists assess and develop treatment plans to address delays in tamariki’s fine motor skills, self-care skills, play and social skills, cognitive skills and ability to integrate sensory information.
We work collaboratively with tamariki and whānau to identify areas of concern and to develop goals and intervention strategies to address these concerns. Together with whānau, we monitor tamariki’s progress and problem-solve to find ways to help tamariki achieve their goals. This may happen over a short or long period of time.
Sometimes equipment assists tamariki to participate in everyday tasks such as eating, sitting at the table and getting around in the community. Occupational Therapists can help with this. We also assist with fitting tamariki for wheelchairs and other seating as well as housing modifications so tamariki can achieve greater independence.
For useful links, please see below:
- Toilet training