Your child might be seeing an occupational therapist, but what really are occupations? 

When we hear the word ‘occupation’, many of us think of our jobs. In OT world, the word ‘occupation’ extends much further than just our paid work. Our occupations are all the jobs we do in our daily life. They are the things we want and need to do each day.

Some of your child’s occupations might be:

• Playing!
• Eating a variety of different foods
• Sleeping
• Self-care occupations: getting dressed, brushing teeth, having a bath, toileting
• Going to school- and doing everything they need to do at school
• Playing in sports or being a part of clubs
• Chores around the house
• Anything else your child likes to do or needs to do!

Everyone’s occupations are different! And occupations have different meanings for every person. 

Occupational therapists play a very special role in helping your child to be able to do their occupations! OTs can help your child to develop the skills they need for each of their occupations. Or, they can help you to adapt the activity or give you tools to make it easier! 

We believe that being able to participate in meaningful activities is so important!

What are some of your favourite occupations?