Occupational Therapy for Autism
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often have a difficult time interacting with the world around them. The majority of kids with ASD have problems processing sensory input. This may be because they can’t filter out unimportant sights, sounds, and other stimuli, or don’t process it as fast as their peers. As a result, they feel overwhelmed and may act out or shut down completely.
Occupational Therapy for autism has proven to help people with ASD learn to function better in their environment and handle everyday challenges with greater success. The goal of occupational therapy (OT) for autism is to grant more independence to individuals with ASD and increase the range of activities in which they can participate.
What is Occupational Therapy for Autism?
Occupational therapy focuses on improving the skills people need to fit more comfortably into their everyday lives. OT pays special attention to the social, physical, cognitive, and motor skills involved in common activities.
First, an occupational therapist will observe the individual with ASD and determine what skills to address. Overall, the therapist will look at general characteristics, such as how the child interacts with others and their environment, how they play and learn, and how they look after themselves.
Once the therapist has an idea of what the child’s challenges are, they construct a framework of strategies and put concrete goals in place to improve day-to-day living. Some areas of focus might include:
- Getting dressed
- Using the bathroom
- Bathing
- Personal grooming
- Eating
- Activities that require fine motor skills (e.g., writing, drawing, using scissors)
Goals of Occupational Therapy for Autism
By improving performance in activities of daily living, it is common for the child with ASD to see progress with other behaviors as well. As therapy progresses, feelings of self-confidence, self-esteem, self-reliance should increase. In time, the child and their parents may see:
- Improved focus
- Improved relationships
- Greater self-control
- Greater cooperation and patience
- Improved emotional expression
The possibilities offered by occupational therapy for autism are as varied and inspiring as the children who work to realize them. Lives can change, both for children with autism and the people who love them.
Ascend Autism
At Ascend Autism, the success of our patients and their families is our only goal. We work with families just like yours to create meaningful, achievable goals for a better, more satisfying life. Each treatment program is custom-designed to fit the individual’s strengths and needs in a wide range of categories.
With over a decade of experience, Ascend Autism provides the treatment children with autism need at the time they need it most. To discuss treatment options in general or to learn more about our services, please contact us at (877) 323-8668.
