How can occupational therapy support my child through the NDIS?

The NDIS can open the door to valuable support, but it can also feel confusing for families who are navigating it for the first time.

You may be wondering whether occupational therapy is covered, what an occupational therapist can work on or how therapy connects with your child’s NDIS goals.

Occupational therapy focuses on helping people participate in everyday life. For children, this may include developing skills for self-care, learning, play, emotional regulation and community participation.

What can an occupational therapist work on?

The support provided will depend on your child’s individual needs, circumstances and goals. Occupational therapy may help a child:

• Develop dressing, toileting, eating or personal-care skills

• Improve fine motor, coordination and play skills

• Participate more confidently in family and community activities

• Develop strategies for sensory and emotional regulation

• Build routines that support greater independence

• Use suitable assistive technology or adaptive equipment

• Develop planning and organisational skills

• Support transitions between activities or environments

• Build the skills needed to participate in everyday life

NDIS-funded therapy supports must relate to the participant’s disability support needs, meet the NDIS funding criteria and connect with the goals and supports included in their plan. Having an NDIS plan does not automatically mean every recommended service will be funded.

What makes occupational therapy “goal focused”?

NDIS goals are often broad. A child’s goal might be to become more independent, participate in the community or develop stronger relationships with other children.

An occupational therapist helps translate these broader goals into meaningful everyday steps.

For example, a goal relating to independence might involve learning to:

• Put on a school uniform

• Pack a bag

• Prepare a simple snack

• Follow a morning routine

• Recognise when help is needed

• Participate in personal-care tasks

Therapy should have a clear purpose and be connected to the child’s life outside the clinic.

Will parents and carers be involved?

Family involvement is especially important in paediatric occupational therapy. Children learn through everyday experiences, and the people who spend the most time with them have an important role in supporting that learning.

This does not mean parents should feel responsible for becoming therapists at home. It means we work collaboratively, share achievable strategies and consider what will realistically fit into family life.

Support may also involve communicating with teachers, educators and other members of the child’s team, with the family’s permission.

What is the NDIS early childhood approach?

The NDIS early childhood approach supports children younger than nine who have a disability or concerns about their development. It focuses on helping children build skills, take part in everyday activities and participate in family and community life.

Some early childhood connections and supports may be available even when a child is not eligible to become an NDIS participant. Families can contact an early childhood partner to discuss their child’s needs and possible next steps. More information is available through the NDIS early childhood approach.

What should I bring to the first appointment?

It can be helpful to bring:

• A copy of your child’s current NDIS plan, if available

• Relevant assessment reports

• Information from school, preschool or childcare

• A list of the activities that are currently difficult

• Your priorities and concerns

• Details of other professionals involved in your child’s care

You do not need to arrive with perfectly written goals. Part of our role is helping you identify the everyday changes that would make the greatest difference to your child and family.

Stepping Stones OT provides compassionate, individualised occupational therapy support for children and families in South West Sydney. Please contact our team to discuss your child’s needs, their NDIS plan and whether our services may be suitable.

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