Understanding Occupational Therapy for Children: A Guide for Shoalhaven and Illawarra Families

SCT services

If your child has been referred to an occupational therapist (OT), you may be wondering: What exactly does an OT do? and How can they help my child thrive? You’re not alone. Many families across the Shoalhaven and Illawarra regions are discovering the life-changing benefits of paediatric occupational therapy—especially when it comes to development, independence, and participation in everyday life.

At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, we work with children of all ages to help them build the skills they need to learn, play, and engage with the world around them.

What Is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy supports children to participate in everyday activities—also known as “occupations.” These include:

• Playing and interacting with peers

• Getting dressed, brushing teeth, and managing toileting

• Writing, cutting, and using school tools

• Following routines at home or in the classroom

• Managing emotions and sensory experiences

Occupational therapists use evidence-based strategies to help children reach developmental milestones, gain independence, and build confidence in everyday life.

How Can an OT Help My Child?

Every child is unique, so our occupational therapists tailor support to each child’s goals, needs, and environment. We can help with:

1. Fine Motor Skills

If your child struggles with handwriting, using scissors, or manipulating small objects, OT can provide fun, engaging activities to strengthen their hand and finger muscles.

2. Gross Motor Skills

Occupational therapists help children improve core strength, balance, coordination, and body awareness—skills essential for running, jumping, and active play.

3. Sensory Processing

Some children are extra sensitive to sound, touch, or movement, while others seek intense sensory input. We help children regulate their sensory systems so they feel calm and in control.

4. Self-Care Skills

We support children to develop independence in daily routines like dressing, toileting, feeding, and grooming—important skills for home, school, and community life.

5. Emotional Regulation and Social Participation

Our therapists support children to understand their emotions, build resilience, and navigate social settings with confidence.

What Does a Typical OT Session Look Like?

Sessions are play-based and tailored to your child’s interests and developmental level. Your child might:

• Climb through an obstacle course to build coordination

• Use tweezers to pick up beads for fine motor control

• Practice getting dressed using visual cues

• Learn calming strategies through sensory tools or games

Therapy is always collaborative—we involve you as the parent every step of the way and provide ideas and activities to try at home between sessions.

Do We Need a Diagnosis?

No diagnosis is required to see an OT. Many children benefit from therapy even without a formal diagnosis. Some families come to us with a referral from a paediatrician, GP, educator, or speech pathologist. Others reach out because they’ve noticed their child is struggling in specific areas and want support early on.

Occupational Therapy in Shoalhaven and Illawarra

At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, we’re proud to support families across Nowra, Shellharbour, Kiama, Wollongong, and surrounding communities. Our paediatric OTs provide:

• In-clinic therapy in welcoming, child-friendly spaces

• Community visits to home, school, or childcare settings

• Parent coaching and custom home programs

• Support for NDIS, Medicare, and privately funded clients

Whether your child needs help with motor skills, sensory regulation, daily routines, or emotional wellbeing, we’re here to help them feel capable and empowered.

Let’s Build Their Confidence—Together

If you’re wondering whether OT could benefit your child, we’d love to talk. Our friendly team is here to answer questions, offer guidance, and work with you to support your child’s development.

Call us or make a referral to schedule an initial consultation—we can’t wait to meet you and your child.