Imagine this: your child is about to start Primary 1. While their classmates are zipping through writing exercises and packing their bags independently, your child struggles to hold a pencil, often forgets instructions, and finds it hard to cope with noisy classrooms. As a parent in Singapore’s academically driven culture, it’s natural to worry — “Is my child ready?”
This is where Occupational Therapy (OT) comes in. More than just exercises or “therapy,” OT helps children participate meaningfully at home, in school, and in the community. The goal of this article is to demystify occupational therapy so that parents feel empowered to make informed choices for their child.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy for children focuses on building the foundational skills they need for daily life, learning, and play. These include:
- Gross motor skills: climbing, running, balancing on playgrounds.
- Fine motor skills: handwriting, using scissors, buttoning clothes.
- Sensory processing: managing reactions to sounds, textures, or crowds.
- Self-care: feeding, dressing, toileting.
- Executive function: planning, problem-solving, following routines.
- Emotional regulation: coping with frustration or transitions.
👉 Example: A child who melts down in shopping malls because of bright lights or loud sounds may be experiencing sensory overload. An OT helps them learn strategies to cope, making outings more manageable for the whole family.
Unlike speech therapy (which targets communication) or physiotherapy (which targets physical rehabilitation), OT bridges the gap between skills and participation — helping children succeed in everyday life.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from OT
Parents often ask, “How do I know if my child needs therapy?” Common signs include:
- Struggling with writing or using cutlery.
- Being unusually clumsy or often tripping.
- Emotional outbursts during transitions or new routines.
- Avoiding noisy playgrounds or being overly sensitive to clothing textures.
- Trouble with making friends or joining group play.
- Difficulty with self-care like dressing, bathing, or feeding.
In Singapore, these challenges often show up in school readiness (e.g., sitting still during lessons, writing Chinese characters) or during family routines like mealtimes.
The Occupational Therapy Journey in Singapore
If you’re considering OT, here’s what the journey typically looks like:
- Referral: Parents can approach polyclinics for a referral to public hospitals, or go directly to private therapy centres like Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre.
- Assessment: Therapists conduct play-based and standardized assessments to understand the child’s strengths and challenges.
- Therapy Plan: A personalized plan is created, with clear goals (e.g., improving handwriting or emotional regulation).
- Sessions: Therapy is often play-based, using sensory gyms, obstacle courses, crafts, or role-play. Parents are encouraged to participate.
- Review: Progress is tracked regularly, and goals are adjusted.
Practical Tips for Parents: Supporting Your Child at Home
OT isn’t just about sessions — it extends into daily life. Here are some simple ways parents can support their child:
- Encourage fine motor play: playdough, Lego, threading beads.
- Build sensory routines: swinging, deep pressure hugs, or quiet corners for calming down.
- Promote independence: give time for your child to dress themselves, even if it’s slower.
- Use visual schedules: help with routines like bedtime or school prep.
💡 Tip: Ask your therapist questions like:
- “What can I do at home to support therapy goals?”
- “How do I help my child transition smoothly into Primary school?”
Also, tap into community resources such as ECDA’s Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC), parents support group in Singapore or private clinic like Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre’s articles and blogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my child’s delays are “normal”?
Every child develops at their own pace, but if delays significantly affect daily life, it’s worth seeking an assessment.
2. Is therapy just play?
Yes — but purposeful play. Activities are carefully designed to build specific skills in a fun, motivating way.
3. How long does therapy last?
It depends on each child. Some may need short-term support; others benefit from longer-term intervention.
4. Is therapy subsidised or covered by insurance?
Public hospitals and EIPIC programmes offer subsidies. Some private insurance plans may cover therapy sessions — always check with your provider. Do you know that you can also use your Baby Bonus payout at Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre?
