Blog Therapy

Jody Dwyer

Jody Dwyer

Senior Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapy for Children with ADHD: Strategies for Success

Child executive functioning

Occupational therapy (OT) is a form of therapy that can have a profound impact on the lives of children with ADHD. This treatment is designed to help children improve their motor, cognitive, and social skills, which can be particularly challenging for those with ADHD. Occupational therapy is a comprehensive approach that aims to improve the child’s overall quality of life by addressing the root causes of their symptoms. This type of therapy can be particularly effective when it is integrated into a larger treatment plan that includes medication, behavioural therapy, and educational interventions.

Occupational therapy for children with ADHD is a collaborative process that involves the child, their parents, and a qualified occupational therapist. The therapist will work closely with the child and their parents to identify specific areas of difficulty and create a tailored treatment plan. This plan may include a variety of techniques, such as sensory integration therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, play therapy, and executive functioning training. By addressing the underlying issues that contribute to the child’s symptoms, occupational therapy can help children with ADHD to manage their condition more effectively and achieve their full potential.

Understanding ADHD & it’s impact on children

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child’s ability to pay attention, control their impulses, and regulate their behaviour. Children with ADHD may exhibit symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, and difficulty with executive functioning. These symptoms can have a significant impact on a child’s daily life, including their academic performance, social interactions, and self-esteem.

Occupational therapy can be an effective treatment for children with ADHD because it addresses the underlying issues that contribute to the child’s symptoms. OT can help children with ADHD to improve their executive functioning, which is the ability to plan, organise, and complete tasks. It can also help children to improve their sensory processing and social skills.

Occupational therapy can be a highly effective treatment for children with ADHD as it addresses the root causes of these challenges. By helping children develop skills to manage their condition, occupational therapy can improve their overall quality of life.
Child OT session

How occupational therapy can help children with ADHD

Occupational therapy is a versatile and dynamic treatment approach that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of children with ADHD. The aim of occupational therapy is to help children with ADHD improve their motor, cognitive, and social skills. This is achieved through a variety of techniques, including sensory integration therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, play therapy, and executive functioning training.

  • Sensory integration therapy: This technique focuses on helping children with ADHD to process sensory information more effectively, which can help to improve their attention and behaviour.
  • Cognitive-behavioural therapy: This technique helps children with ADHD to identify and modify negative patterns of thought and behaviour.
  • Play therapy: This technique uses play to help children with ADHD to learn new skills and develop positive behaviours.
  • Executive functioning training: This technique focuses on helping children with ADHD to improve their ability to plan, organise, and complete tasks.
By using a variety of techniques tailored to the child’s unique needs, occupational therapists can help children with ADHD develop the skills they need to manage their condition more effectively. Through sensory integration therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, play therapy, and executive functioning training, occupational therapy can help children with ADHD to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
 
If you have questions about how occupational therapy can help your family, please contact us or visit our clinic so we can personalise your options

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Strategies for success in occupational therapy for children with ADHD

Occupational therapy is most effective when parents play an active role in the treatment process. These strategies may include:

  1. Preparing their child for therapy sessions by explaining what will happen and what is expected of them.
  2. Supporting their child during therapy sessions by staying engaged and providing positive feedback.
  3. Reinforcing the strategies used in occupational therapy at home by practising the skills learned during therapy.
  4. Setting realistic goals for their child and celebrating their successes.
Parents often play a vital role in helping their child with ADHD succeed in occupational therapy. By using some of these strategies, parents can help their child get the most out of every occupational therapy session, and improve the overall effectiveness of the personal care plan.
Child drawing planning having fun

Other therapies & treatments for ADHD

While occupational therapy is an effective treatment for children with ADHD, it is often used in conjunction with other therapies and treatments to create a comprehensive treatment plan. These may include:
  • Medication: Medication can be an effective treatment for ADHD, but it should be used in conjunction with other therapies.
  • Behavioural therapy: Behavioural therapy can help children with ADHD to develop positive behaviours and social skills.
  • Educational interventions: Educational interventions can help children with ADHD to succeed in school by providing accommodations and support.
There are many different treatment options available for children with ADHD, and it is important to consider all options as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. By working with a qualified healthcare professional and exploring all available treatment options, parents can create a personalised plan that meets their child’s unique needs and gives them the tools they need to succeed.
Child play therapy
While occupational therapy can be an effective treatment for ADHD, it is important to remember that it is just one part of a larger treatment plan. Other treatments may include medication, behavioural therapy, and educational interventions. If you suspect that your child has ADHD, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional. With the right treatment and support, children with ADHD can thrive and succeed in all areas of their lives. Contact Therapy Partners today to find out how we can help your children grow their independence, social skills and overall happiness.
Jody Dwyer

Jody Dwyer

Senior Occupational Therapist

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