Pediatric occupational therapy focuses on helping children develop skills needed to function independently in their daily lives. This may include play, feeding, dressing, school participation, etc. Specifically, occupational therapy tends to focus on arm/hand function and sensory integration issues.

After a thorough assessment of your child, the occupational therapist develops a treatment plan that includes the parent/caregiver, plus consultations with the child’s doctors and other health care providers. Our occupational physical therapists work closely with your child to help them safely and gradually gain, regain or continue their independence in the activities they enjoy.

Individual therapy sessions, based on the child’s needs, are available at Javon Bea Hospital–Riverside in Rockford, IL.

Occupational therapy helps with:

• Developmental delays and learning disabilities
• Recovering from burns
• Genetic and neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and autism
• Generalized weakness
• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
• Shoulder, arm, wrist and hand injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Sports injuries
• Many other conditions that require a focus on fine motor skills, coordination, upper extremity functioning, and visual motor skills

Pediatric occupational therapy is provided by physician referral only.