Understanding OT: What Do We Do?

Understanding OT: What Does a Paediatric Occupational Therapist Actually Do?

You’ve been referred to a paediatric occupational therapist (OT), but you may be wondering - what exactly does that mean? Here’s a quick guide to help you understand what our OT service at Little Peaks OT is about and how we can help your child.

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More Than Just Therapy

When families first hear “occupational therapy,” they often think of handwriting help or learning to use scissors. And yes—those are important! But at Little Peaks OT, our role goes much deeper. We support children with a wide range of needs, and we work just as much with families as we do with children.

Our mission is simple: to empower children and the people who love them.

At Little Peaks OT, we support children aged 3–18 with a strong focus on neurodiversity, development, and family-centred care. Whether it’s helping a child with autism learn to regulate their emotions, supporting a teen with ADHD to organise their school routine, or guiding a parent through the stress of daily transitions, our work is all about function, connection, and growth—at every level.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what paediatric OT really looks like at Little Peaks: our services, the conditions we support, and how we partner with you to make a meaningful difference in your child’s (and your family’s) life.

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So… What Is Paediatric Occupational Therapy?

Put simply, paediatric occupational therapy helps children build the skills they need to do the everyday things that matter:

• Play

• Learning

• Connecting

• Eating

• Dressing

• Expressing themselves

• Participating in daily routines

An “occupation” is not a job—it’s anything that occupies your child’s day. That might mean getting ready for school, using a spoon, making friends, or coping with overwhelming sensations.

Who We Work With

We are proud to work with a diverse community of children and families, including those with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

• Down Syndrome

• Intellectual Disabilities

• Mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, trauma, emotional dysregulation)

• Developmental delays

• Behavioural challenges

• Sensory processing differences

Our Services at a Glance

Let’s take a closer look at what’s actually included in our service offering.

Our Services

Every child is different, and so is every therapy plan. We do not take a “one size fits all” approach—instead, we listen, learn, and co-create goals with you.

At Little Peaks OT, we believe therapy works best when it includes the people who love the child most. We:

• Involve you in setting goals

• Celebrate progress together

• Adjust strategies to fit your values and routines

• Recognise your unique family structure, culture, and story

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or hopeful—we’re here to walk this path with you.

Ready to Start the Climb?

We know that seeking therapy can feel like a big step. But you’ve already taken the first one by learning more. Our name, Little Peaks, comes from our belief that progress is a series of little climbs—some easy, some hard, all worth it. We’d love to be part of your journey. Whether you’re looking for answers, support, or just someone to understand your child the way you do—we’re here.

Get in Touch

• Website: www.littlepeakot.com.au

• Email: admin@littlepeaksot.com.au

• Phone: Little Peaks OT is a sole-therapist practice. I’m often with clients, so please leave a message and I will get back to you at the earliest opportunity.

• Location: Jervis Bay, NSW - Mobile Service offering Home and School visits.

• Telehealth also available.

Let’s take the next step—together.