Occupational Therapy for children and youth

Occupational Therapy for children and youth is based on assessment of the child’s/youth’s functional capacity, participation in play and daily situations. The assessment is conducted by the occupational therapist and serves as a basis for consultation of and guidance for the client’s social surroundings (e.g. parents/guardians, day care/school). When necessary, the client is referred to further examination (e.g. by a psychologist, speech and language therapist, physiotherapist or doctor at special health care).

A referral from e.g. a child health care/school nurse, doctor or psychologist is required to access the occupational therapy, however guidance and instruction by the occupational therapist is available even without referral. The services are free of charge for the client.

The child/youth occupational therapist at Nortamo Family Centre is specialized in the evaluation of sensory integration and therapy both of which are based on the theoretical approach Dr. A. Jean Ayres developed relying on her extended research. Sensory integration refers to processing of sensory information by the Central Nervous System. It is a process intended to organize and structure sensory information derived from both our body and our environment, which enables us to respond to situations and function appropriately. Play is a fundamental element in Sensory Integration Therapy. The therapy room with its plentiful stimuli and opportunities tempts the child into active play, which allows for Central Nervous System areas responsible for e.g. sensory integration and motor functions and communication to strengthen and develop further.