When to refer to an OT for sensory processing
- Frequent meltdowns or temper tantrums
- Difficulty separating from parents/friends/teacher
- Dislikes getting messy or touches objects excessively
- Child is clever but school is difficult for him/her
- Avoids playground equipment or craves intense movement
- Clumsy or falls often
- Shy or anxious and may struggle to make friends
When to refer to an OT for concentration
- Difficulty sitting still and fidgety
- Jumps from one activity to another or daydreams
- Forgetful and easily distracted | loses personal belongings
- Untidy work, bag or desk
- Talks excessively and/or interrupts others while speaking
- Very slow work-pace or too fast (impulsive)
- Difficulty starting a task or following instructions
When to refer to an OT for muscle tone and gross motor
- Tires quickly and often slouches
- Lies on arm at the table or supports head with hand
- Dislikes getting messy or touches objects excessively
- Poor posture on chair – leaning back or hooking feet
- Poor balance
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Clumsy child
When to refer to an OT for fine motor
- Poor pencil grasp
- Presses very hard or too soft when writing or drawing
- Difficulty manipulating tools – scissors, lunchbox etc
- Takes a long time to complete work
- Messy handwriting
- Pictures drawn are very simple
- Uses bigger movement when drawing and writing (not fingers)
When to refer to an OT for visual perception
- Dislikes puzzles
- Battles to find objects in busy background
- Difficulty copying from the board
- Reverses numbers and/or letters such as D/B, P/Q
- Messy handwriting
- Loses place when reading
- Rubs eyes frequently when reading, drawing or writing
Written by Ashley Brecher (Jones), Bright Eyes Therapy.
For more information you are welcome to contact us on 0836161662
