Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can face a wide range of challenges, from struggling to complete their schoolwork to having trouble socialising and keeping friends.
If the child lacks proper support, these difficulties can cause long-term damage to the child’s self-esteem and emotional development.
A paediatric occupational therapist can be instrumental in helping the young child navigate these different challenges, and prevent the emotional harm that they may cause.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is meant for general information purposes only. If you suspect your child has ADHD, seek the advice of a professional such as a paediatrician, psychologist, or child psychiatrist.
Contrary to what the name suggests, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects more than attention.
It impacts learning, behavior, and daily routines. Children may struggle to sit still, follow instructions, or manage emotions. These challenges can affect school, friendships, and home life.
Pediatric occupational therapy (OT) helps children build everyday skills. The goal is not to “fix” the child. It is to support their ability to function and succeed in daily activities.
Occupational therapists focus on daily “occupations.” For children, this means play, school tasks, self-care, and social interaction.
Therapy is practical and goal-based, and is tailored to each child’s needs.
Children with ADHD often struggle with executive functions. These include planning, organising, and remembering tasks. They may forget instructions or feel overwhelmed.
OTs use simple tools to help. Visual schedules are common. Checklists break tasks into small steps. For example, getting ready for school can be shown step by step.
These supports build independence. They also reduce stress for the child and family.
Many children with ADHD have sensory differences. Some are sensitive to noise or touch. Others seek movement or stimulation.
OTs assess how a child responds to sensory input. They then create a “sensory diet.” This is a set of activities that help the child stay regulated.
For example, a child may take movement breaks. They might use fidget tools or do jumping activities. These help improve focus and calm the body.
Emotional control can be difficult for children with ADHD, who may be quick to react or feel overwhelmed. Small problems can lead to big reactions.
OTs can teach simple and developmentally appropriate coping skills. These include deep breathing and calming strategies. Children also learn to name their emotions.
Therapists often use games or role-play. This makes learning fun and safe. Over time, children learn to pause and respond more calmly.
Social interaction can be challenging for a child with ADHD. They may struggle with concepts such as sharing, waiting for their turn, and playing with others. This may affect how they get along with their peers, and can lead to loneliness if they struggle to make or keep friends.
An OT helps children practice these skills through exercises such as role-play or guided play, which teach the child to listen, share, and cooperate. By working on these skills patiently in a supportive, safe environment, they build behaviours and confidence for real-world situations.
OT is not done in isolation. Therapists work with parents and teachers, sharing strategies for home and school. This might include using timers or clear routines.
Every child with ADHD is different, so it’s important that therapy plans are always individualised. Therapists adjust strategies based on progress.
They also focus on strengths. Many children with ADHD are creative and energetic. OT builds on these positive traits.
Our team of mobile paediatric occupational therapists provide personalised, at-home therapy sessions all across Sydney.
Call 02 8808 4000 or message us through this form and we’ll be in touch with you as soon as possible.