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Children's TherapyRita has extensive experience working with children since 1993 in the public schools, community and home-based settings. She has worked with children with a variety of disabilities such as Asperger’s syndrome, Autism, developmental delays, Down Syndrome, learning disabilities, sensory integration difficulties and other disorders. Today she provides individual and group therapy for children in a small, intimate setting at her Healing Gate office in the University area. (Please see Special Classes for group information.)
Occupational therapy (O.T.) is a treatment approach that provides individuals with the tools needed for success and independence in daily life. With a child, succeeding in daily life includes skills necessary to flourish in school, home and at play. These skills are crucial for optimal growth, independence and a positive self -esteem.
Occupational therapy services may be recommended for a child from a classroom teacher, school counselor or pediatrician. Occupational therapy may address challenges seen at home and/or the school setting, such as: following directions, paying attention, handwriting, fine motor difficulties, visual problems affecting reading, writing or copying, overall body strength/endurance, gross motor coordination/balance, body awareness and sensitivity to touch/noise/movement.
Children learn best by playing, moving and enjoying the therapeutic activity asked of them. Rita believes that therapy is most beneficial when the child is having fun and is also provided with the “just right challenge” during O.T. sessions. Often movement, sensory/vestibular input, “academic” tasks (such as those expected at school) and upper body strengthening activities are included to give children the opportunity to practice and refine skills required to succeed at school, home and in play. Your child will be evaluated based upon observation/parent interview to determine specific interventions necessary to help them succeed.
In addition to individual sessions, a children’s yoga class is offered on an on-going basis. The next 8 week session begins 1/15/09. (Please see Special Classes for details.)