occupational therapy
Our pediatric OT team helps kids build everyday life skills—boosting confidence, independence, and their ability to play, learn & thrive.
why families choose pediatric occupational therapy
At Dayton Children’s, our pediatric occupational therapy (OT) team helps children of all ages—from newborns to teens—overcome physical, sensory and cognitive challenges so they can reach their full potential. Our goal is to help every child succeed in their most important “occupations”: playing, learning and self-care.
Our therapists focus on improving movement, coordination and fine motor skills while promoting independence in daily activities. Using observation, standardized assessments and play-based techniques, we create personalized treatment plans that support your child’s growth, confidence and development at home, school and beyond.
our approach to pediatric occupational therapy
The occupational therapy process at Dayton Children’s begins with understanding your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals, set in collaboration with the child and parent or caregiver. As your child grows and progresses, those goals evolve to ensure continued success.
Our therapists use a variety of proven techniques to improve fine motor, visual-perceptual, cognitive and sensory-processing skills. Depending on your child’s needs, therapy may include:
- Strengthening fine motor control for tasks like grasping toys or handwriting
- Improving hand-eye coordination for play and classroom activities
- Building self-help skills such as dressing, bathing and feeding
- Supporting use of adaptive tools like utensils, computers or communication devices
- Recommending and training on equipment like splints or wheelchairs
- Using sensory integration methods to improve focus, regulation and social participation
Each treatment plan is personalized to help your child gain independence and confidence in their everyday life.
occupational therapy services
Dayton Children’s offers occupational therapy (OT) for patients who are in the hospital to help support their recovery and prepare them for going home. Our pediatric OT team helps children build strength, flexibility and independence in daily activities like dressing, bathing, feeding and fine motor tasks. Therapy is offered seven days a week, with frequency tailored to each child’s needs – from daily sessions to weekly check-ins. In the NICU, OT supports positioning, development and infant massage for medically stable newborns requiring additional care.
Dayton Children’s occupational therapy team provides services for children from newborn through age 21, supporting a wide range of developmental and functional needs. Our specialized offerings include:
- Upper extremity splinting
- Adaptive equipment recommendations
- Pressure garment fitting for scar management
We focus on helping children thrive in everyday activities at every age and stage. Our team will assist and focus on developing:
- Fine motor skills such as handwriting
- Visual perception skills such as puzzle and shape activities
- Self-help skills such as bathing, dressing and hygiene such as brushing teeth
- Muscle strength and endurance
- Feeding skills such as using utensils
- Sensory processing skills for self-regulation
conditions we treat
Dayton Children’s supports the treatment of a wide range of pediatric conditions through occupational therapy.
news and blogs
Stay up-to-date with the latest insights from Dayton Children’s. We’re always working to share helpful, family-focused content to help you navigate your child’s developmental journey with confidence.
patient stories
Every day, families at Dayton Children’s inspire us with their stories of progress and resilience. From first steps to newfound independence, these moments reflect the heart of our pediatric occupational therapy care. Discover how our team goes above and beyond to support kids just like yours – every step of the way.
for your visit
For all visits to occupational therapy please make sure your child is wearing comfortable and loose clothing and bring:
- Insurance information
- Any brace or orthotics
- Any required forms from your child’s school
- Names and contact information for anyone else you would like to be included in the care plan. These may include doctors or school officials.
- If your child wears glasses, please remember to bring them to each appointment.
what to expect during your first visit
Your child’s first occupational therapy appointment typically begins with an evaluation. The therapist will ask questions about your child’s:
- Development
- Daily routines
- Favorite activities
- Any concerns you may have – such as delays in milestones or school performance
Using age-appropriate play and activities, the therapist will observe your child’s fine motor skills and overall function. After the evaluation, you’ll receive feedback on your child’s strengths and areas for improvement. If therapy is recommended, a personalized treatment plan will be created, along with a home program to support progress between sessions.
find more resources for your visit
Get checklists, resources, and helpful tips for before, during, and after your visit to Dayton Children’s—so you know exactly what to expect.
hours & locations
Our pediatric occupational therapy team sees patients at Dayton Children’s locations across the region.
next steps for rehabilitation care
If you think your child may benefit from pediatric rehabilitation services, talk with your primary care provider about a referral to Dayton Children’s.
