Every April, we celebrate Occupational Therapy Month, honoring the professionals who help people of all ages live healthier, more independent, and more fulfilling lives. Whether it’s a child learning how to play and thrive, or an adult with special needs building independence and confidence, occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) are there—offering expertise, support, and a belief in what’s possible.

What Is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy focuses on helping people participate in the everyday activities—or “occupations”—that are meaningful to them. These can range from brushing teeth and tying shoes to cooking meals, working, or engaging in hobbies and social life.

OTs take a holistic approach, looking beyond diagnoses to understand each person’s goals, environment, and unique strengths. Whether it’s adapting to space, modifying a task, or building a new skill, OTs help people live life to the fullest.

Pediatric Occupational Therapy: Helping Children Thrive

For children, “occupations” include playing, learning, and interacting with others. Pediatric OTs work with children of all ages to build the foundational skills they need to grow and succeed at home, in school, and in the community.

They support children with:

  • Developmental delays
  • Sensory processing disorders
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Fine and gross motor skill challenges
  • Feeding and self-care difficulties
  • Emotional and behavioral regulation

Through individualized therapy, creative play, and strong family collaboration, pediatric OTs help kids gain confidence, independence, and the ability to participate fully in everyday life.

Occupational Therapy for Adults with Special Needs: Building Independence and Confidence

For adults with special needs, including those with intellectual or developmental disabilities, physical impairments, or neurodiverse conditions, occupational therapy plays a key role in promoting independence, participation, and dignity.

OTs work with adults with special needs too:

  • Improve daily living skills such as cooking, hygiene, and money management
  • Enhance communication and social interaction
  • Develop vocational and job-readiness skills
  • Adapt environments for greater accessibility and safety
  • Support sensory integration and emotional regulation
  • Build routines for structure and independence

Therapy is tailored to everyone’s strengths, challenges, and goals, whether that’s navigating public transportation, managing a home, joining a community program, or succeeding in a job placement. OTs also collaborate closely with families, caregivers, and support staff to ensure consistency and progress across settings.

By empowering adults with special needs to participate more fully in daily life, OTs help foster a sense of purpose, inclusion, and self-confidence.