In short: Occupational therapists (OTs) help children with everyday skills — handwriting, dressing, attention and sensory processing. Many autistic and ADHD children see an OT.
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Occupational therapy for kids focuses on the “occupations” of childhood: playing, learning and self-care.
What OTs help with
- Fine motor skills: handwriting, cutting, buttons
- Gross motor skills and coordination
- Sensory processing difficulties
- Attention and self-regulation strategies
- Daily routines and independence
What is sensory integration therapy?
Ayres Sensory Integration uses play-based activities (swings, textures, movement) to help children process sensory information. Evidence is growing for some autistic children, but results vary; ask your OT how progress will be measured.
Cost and medical aid
OT sessions are usually paid privately or from medical aid savings; some plans have a therapy limit and need a referral. See our medical aid comparison.
Home sensory ideas
- A calm corner with cushions and a weighted lap pad
- Movement breaks between homework tasks
- Fidget and sensory toys
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Sources & further reading
- Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa (OTASA)
- Schaaf et al. (2014), Ayres Sensory Integration intervention for autistic children, J Autism Dev Disord
- HPCSA register
Last checked: 31 October 2026. If you spot something out of date, tell us.