Paediatric Occupational Therapy Services

Every child deserves the opportunity to lead a wonderful, happy and full life. Our paediatric occupational therapists are passionate about working with children and their families, and about helping your child reach their true potential. We provide a warm, supportive and nurturing environment where your child's needs are understood and their achievements are celebrated.

We provide thorough assessments and therapy for babies, toddlers, children and teenagers.

How We Can Help

Prepare comprehensive reports and complete standardised testing.
Fine motor skills: holding a pencil, handwriting, cutting, colouring in, threading, buttons and zips, and tying shoelaces.
Self-care skills: building independence with toileting, dressing, using a knife and fork, washing and simple meal preparation.
Gross motor skills: catching and throwing a ball, jumping, balance and coordination.
Play skills: learning to play, explore and use imagination, alone and with others.
Social skills: taking turns, sharing, making friends and joining in.
Sensory processing: understanding how your child's body responds to sights, sounds, touch and movement, and how this affects their concentration, behaviour and learning.
Assistive technology: equipment such as paediatric manual or power wheelchairs, strollers, supportive seating for school or home, shower chairs and bath seats.

Where We See Your Child

Depending on your child's needs, therapy can take place in our Wallsend clinic, at home, at day care or preschool, or at school.

How Sessions Work

Your child's therapy is made up of two parts: time spent face to face with your child, and the work your therapist does behind the scenes to support that time.

Face-to-face sessions usually run for 45 minutes, although this can vary depending on your child's needs and goals.

The behind-the-scenes work, known as non-face-to-face support, is also part of your child's session. It can include:

talking with parents, carers, teachers and other therapists
planning therapy, writing session notes and preparing resources for home or school
completing documentation related to your child's goals and NDIS plan

The balance between the two will vary from session to session. All of it is done to make sure your child's therapy is effective and focused on their goals.

Home Programs and Ongoing Support

We work closely with families, and your therapist may give you practical strategies or activities to try at home between sessions. Regular practice as part of everyday routines helps children build their skills and reach their goals.