Author: bloomtruetherapy

Pediatric occupational therapy (OT) helps children develop the skills they need to participate in everyday activities — at home, at school, and in the community. When working with autistic children, occupational therapy is highly individualized and focuses on supporting each child’s unique strengths, needs, and sensory experiences.

Autistic children may experience challenges with sensory processing, fine motor skills, emotional regulation, self-care tasks, or transitions throughout the day. Pediatric occupational therapy addresses these areas through play-based, child-led activities that are both engaging and meaningful.

An occupational therapist may work on:

• Sensory regulation, such as helping a child feel more comfortable with sounds, textures, or movement
• Fine motor skills, including grasping, handwriting, and using utensils
• Daily living skills, like dressing, feeding, and hygiene
• Emotional regulation and coping strategies
• Attention, transitions, and routines

Rather than trying to “change” who a child is, pediatric occupational therapy supports autistic children in understanding their bodies, building confidence, and developing skills that help them navigate their world more comfortably. Therapy sessions are often playful, supportive, and guided by the child’s interests.

Occupational therapists also collaborate closely with parents and caregivers, providing education and strategies that can be carried over into daily routines. This partnership helps children feel supported across all environments.

Pediatric occupational therapy can be a powerful tool in helping autistic children thrive — not by focusing on limitations, but by nurturing independence, self-awareness, and meaningful participation in everyday life.

When it comes to supporting children with autism, one size doesn’t fit all. DIR/Floortime stands out as a highly personalized, relationship-based approach that focuses on emotional connection and developmental progress through play. Developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan, DIR (Developmental, Individual-differences, Relationship-based model) emphasizes meeting children where they are — and helping them grow through meaningful interaction.

So, what makes DIR/Floortime so effective?

1. Child-Led Engagement
   Instead of directing the child, DIR/Floortime follows their interests. This creates a safe space for natural communication, helping children feel seen and understood.
2. Builds Emotional and Social Skills
   Through playful back-and-forth interaction, children practice emotional regulation, shared attention, and social problem-solving — essential life skills that are often challenging for those with autism.
3. Customized to Each Child
   DIR/Floortime recognizes that every child has unique sensory needs, communication styles, and developmental levels. It adapts to each child’s individual differences rather than trying to “fix” behaviors.
4. Empowers Parents and Caregivers
   A key part of the model involves coaching parents to become active partners in their child’s growth, turning everyday moments into opportunities for connection and learning.

In short, DIR/Floortime doesn’t just aim to reduce symptoms — it nurtures the whole child. By building on strengths and relationships, it supports lasting development from the inside out.