Occupational Therapy
Watching your child grow and learn is a rewarding journey filled with incredible moments. But for some parents, questions arise about whether their child is developing the skills they need for everyday activities. At ProActive Pediatric Therapy, we specialize in helping children reach these important milestones through occupational therapy. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and support your child’s journey to independence.
Do you have concerns about your BABY or child's development?
Occupational therapy (OT) focuses on helping children develop the fine motor, sensory, and social skills they need to succeed in daily activities. These activities range from self-care tasks—like feeding and dressing—to playing, socializing, and learning. Our occupational therapists work with children of all ages and abilities, using fun, play-based exercises that make therapy engaging and effective. Our approach ensures that each child develops the skills they need to confidently navigate their world.
Many parents wonder if their child’s challenges are typical or if they might benefit from occupational therapy. Here are some common questions and concerns we hear from families:
When Should I Consider Occupational Therapy for My Child?
i wonder...
Have you ever wondered about the following?
My child needs leg braces. Are there other options other than typical AFOs?
My child struggles with pooping or potty training.
My child seems weak or struggles with balance.
My toddler (or child) seems clumsy and uncoordinated. Is this normal?
I have heard of NMES- Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (or Estim). I wonder if this could help?
I wonder why my baby dislikes being on their tummy
My child walks on toes frequently or
slaps feet when walking
My baby only rolls in one direction or is not rolling at all
I wonder why baby prefers to crawl with one leg up and the other down
These are normal concerns, and our team is here to help you understand if occupational therapy might be beneficial. We assess your child’s unique needs, identify areas for growth, and create a personalized therapy plan tailored to their development.
Thriving Through Therapy
How OT Supports Your Child for Real-World Growth
Fine Motor Skill Development
- Activities that improve hand-eye coordination, grip strength, and dexterity, such as stringing beads, stacking blocks, or using utensils. These skills are foundational for tasks like writing, dressing, and feeding.
Sensory Integration Therapy
- Techniques designed to help children process and respond to sensory information more effectively. For example, therapists might use swinging, textured materials, or sound-based activities to improve a child’s tolerance to sensory stimuli.
Self-Care Skills Training
- Focused practice on everyday activities like dressing, brushing teeth, and eating independently. Therapists break down these tasks into manageable steps to build confidence and independence.
Social and Emotional Skill Building
- Play-based activities that teach children how to interact with peers, manage frustration, and develop emotional regulation. These skills are crucial for success in group settings, such as school or playdates.
Adaptive Equipment and Environmental Modifications
- Introducing tools or making changes to a child’s environment to enhance their ability to perform tasks. This could include using weighted utensils for eating or modifying a classroom setting to reduce distractions.
Early intervention is one of the most effective ways to support your child’s developmental journey, setting them up for success now and in the future. Research shows that the first three years of life are a critical window for brain development, and addressing challenges early can lead to significant, lasting benefits. For example, if your child has difficulty with sensory processing, early occupational therapy can teach them strategies to stay calm and focused in busy environments, like a grocery store or playground. Similarly, if your baby has motor delays, physical therapy can help them strengthen their muscles and practice skills like crawling or walking, giving them the tools they need to explore their world confidently. At ProActive Pediatric Therapy, we partner with families to provide targeted, real-world support, helping your child overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
The Power of Early Intervention for Your Child’s Development
Love from our families
"Our son has gone from constantly spitting up, arching in discomfort, and limited/delayed mobility to the happy boy we know and love. We love ProActive and wish more parents knew about the benefits of early intervention with pediatric OT. Feeding issues can be so complex; we're so grateful for Lisa and the team's expertise and care!"
“We LOVE ProActive Pediatric Therapy!
We have been going to ProActive for the past
four years and have been so grateful for their expertise, knowledge-base, and practical solutions for us to use in our home when helping our children gain skills. The therapists are constantly learning more in order to bring the most cutting-edge strategies, practices, and equipment for our children and they walk right alongside us as we continue to help our kids grow and develop into the best version of their self.”
“My 2 week old daughter has been gassy and I was concerned about her latch while breastfeeding. I took her to ProActive Pediatric Therapy and was so impressed with their knowledge. They did some body work with her and taught me so much, even after breastfeeding all 3 of my other kiddos! Her latch is already much better and I have the tools to help her at home now."
“Shouting our praises regarding the compassionate and knowledgable staff at ProActive Pediatric Therapy! After years of therapeutic services at various other agencies, we had concerns about a plateau in our daughter's progress. We felt both welcomed and encouraged from day one at ProActive. We are forever grateful for the time and effort the staff has put forth in order to learn who our daughter is as an individual; her interests, her needs, what motivates her, etc.”
Your child and family will flourish with the support of our team. You're not alone in your child's growth and development journey.
looking for answers to your questions and concerns?
You’re in the right place.
Follow along on Instagram
@ProActivePediatricTherapy
designed by Melissa Meis
privacy policy
all rights reserved
1717 Boyson Rd, Hiawatha, IA 52233 | (319) 200-2004
Email: info@proactivepediatrictherapy.com
