Our Services
How We Can Help
Every child is unique, and so are their needs. Our occupational therapy services are designed to support children in areas such as movement, play, sensory processing, and emotional wellbeing. We work alongside families to create practical, engaging, and personalised therapy plans.
Gross Motor Skills Development
Gross motor skills are the big movements children use to sit, crawl, walk, run, and jump. Difficulties in this area can affect play, balance, and coordination. Our therapists use fun, engaging activities to help children build strength, confidence, and independence in their everyday movements.
Fine Motor Skills Development
Fine motor skills involve the small movements needed for tasks like writing, using cutlery, buttoning clothes, or tying shoelaces. If your child finds these activities tricky, our team can support them with tailored strategies and play-based therapy to improve dexterity, confidence, and independence.
Sensory Processing & Integration
Some children experience difficulties processing everyday sights, sounds, textures, or movements. This can affect their emotions, behaviour, and ability to participate in daily life. Our occupational therapists use assessments, fun activities, and calming strategies to help children better understand and respond to their environment.
Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation is the ability to understand, manage, and respond to feelings in healthy ways. Children who struggle in this area may become easily overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated. We work with children to build coping skills, resilience, and confidence, helping them feel more in control of their emotions.
Social & Complex Behaviour Support
Developing social skills and managing complex behaviours can be challenging for some children. Our therapists provide support through structured activities, play, and evidence-based strategies to help children connect with others, build friendships, and participate meaningfully in their community.
Sensory integration
At Justin OT, we offer a wide range of occupational therapy services to support your child’s growth, development, and wellbeing. Each service is tailored to meet your child’s unique needs, helping them build confidence and independence.
What is Sensory Processing and Sensory Integration?
Sensory processing is the way our nervous system receives messages from our senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, movement, and body awareness—and turns them into appropriate responses. Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to organise and interpret this sensory information so we can respond effectively to our environment.
For many children, this process happens naturally. However, some children experience difficulties, which can affect their behaviour, learning, and participation in daily activities. For example, a child might cover their ears at loud noises, avoid certain clothing textures, or seek out constant movement.
Why Does Sensory Processing Need to Be Addressed?
When sensory processing isn’t working smoothly, it can impact:
- Attention and learning: Children may struggle to focus in noisy or visually busy environments.
- Emotional regulation: Overwhelm from sensory input can lead to meltdowns or withdrawal.
- Social participation: Sensory challenges can make it difficult to join in play or group activities.
- Daily routines: Tasks like dressing, eating, or bathing may become stressful or avoided.
Addressing sensory processing difficulties is essential to help children feel comfortable, confident, and able to participate in everyday life.
How Occupational Therapists Address Sensory Processing Difficulties
Occupational Therapists (OTs) are experts in understanding how sensory processing affects daily life. Here’s how OTs can help:
- Assessment: OTs observe your child and may use standardised tools to identify specific sensory challenges.
- Individualised Planning: They work with you to develop a tailored intervention plan based on your child’s needs, strengths, and goals.
- Education: OTs provide information and strategies to help you understand your child’s sensory profile and how to support them at home and in the community.
- Intervention: Therapy sessions focus on activities that help your child process sensory information more effectively and develop coping skills.
- Environmental Modifications: OTs suggest changes to your child’s environment, such as reducing noise, using visual supports, or creating sensory-friendly spaces.
Specific Activities to Support Sensory Integration
Here are some examples of activities OTs might use or recommend:
- Proprioceptive Activities (Heavy Work):
- Pushing or pulling weighted objects (e.g., laundry baskets, resistance bands)
- Animal walks (bear crawl, crab walk)
- Carrying groceries or books
- Vestibular Activities (Movement):
- Swinging, spinning, or bouncing on therapy balls
- Jumping on a trampoline
- Rocking in a rocking chair
- Tactile Activities (Touch):
- Playing with playdough, slime, or kinetic sand
- Finger painting or water play
- Exploring different fabric textures
- Deep Pressure Input:
- Using weighted blankets or lap pads
- Giving firm hugs or squeezes
- Rolling up in a soft blanket (“burrito wrap”)
- Calming Strategies:
- Creating a quiet, cosy corner with soft lighting
- Listening to calming music or nature sounds
- Practising deep breathing or mindfulness exercises
Supporting Your Child at Home
Every child’s sensory needs are unique. By working with an OT, you can learn which activities and strategies best support your child’s development and wellbeing. Remember, addressing sensory processing is not about “fixing” your child, but about helping them feel safe, understood, and empowered to participate in the world around them.
If you have concerns about your child’s sensory processing, reach out to an Occupational Therapist for guidance and support. Together, you can help your child build confidence and independence in their daily life.
Get Started Today
Taking the first step towards helping your child thrive is easier than you think. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions, guide you through funding options, and make sure you feel confident moving forward.