Application of occupational therapy in children with disabilities

Abstract

Occupational therapy is a specific discipline within the broader spectrum of special education and rehabilitation services. Although there may be some overlap in populations served and therapeutic approaches, each, occupational therapy and special education and rehabilitation, play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities to lead more fulfilling lives. Occupational therapy for children with disabilities is based on an understanding of the interaction between children, their activities and the environment, and therefore, when assessing abilities, the starting point is to see whether limitations are the result of external barriers and limitations or are primarily related to developmental ability and functional status. The growth of a child into an adult person involves continuous adaptation to the demands set by the environment and assimilation of opportunities, and this dynamic interaction is even more complex in children born with a risk factor or a certain type of disability. So occupational therapy can be a huge benefit for children with disabilities, as an effective way to help these kids perform meaningful activities and enrich their lives. This study employs a systematic literature review methodology to explore the application of occupational therapy (OT) in children with special needs. A systematic approach ensures a comprehensive and unbiased synthesis of existing literature to identify key themes, interventions, and effectiveness in pediatric occupational therapy. Occupational therapy (OT) plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for children with special needs by enhancing their independence, functional abilities, and overall well-being. Through individualized interventions, OT helps children develop essential motor, cognitive, sensory and social skills, enabling them to participate in daily activities at home, school and in the community.