What Is Occupational Therapy in Early Intervention (And How It Helps Your Child)?

When families first hear the term occupational therapy, they often wonder what it means—especially when it comes to babies, toddlers, or preschoolers.

At Day by Day Early Intervention, our approach to occupational therapy in early intervention is all about helping children develop the everyday skills they need to participate, connect, and thrive. We don’t just look at milestones—we focus on meaningful, functional goals that make a real difference in your home, at kindy, and in the community.

So, What Does an OT Actually Do With Little Kids?

Our occupational therapists support young children and their families in building skills for real-life routines and transitions. We do this through play, movement, sensory exploration, and parent collaboration.

Here are some of the key areas we support through occupational therapy in early intervention:

• Fine Motor Skills - Helping children strengthen their hands and fingers so they can draw, feed themselves, use scissors, and manage clothing fasteners like buttons or zips.

• Sensory Regulation - Supporting children who might feel overwhelmed by loud noises, messy textures, or busy spaces—so they can feel safe, calm, and in control of their bodies.

• Emotional and Social Skills - Building confidence in social play, helping children manage big feelings, follow routines, and use tools like visuals or timers to support transitions.

• Self-Care and Independence - Working on everyday tasks like brushing teeth, using the toilet, getting dressed, or feeding with less frustration and more success.

• Participation and Engagement - Helping your child stay focused during play, join in with group activities, and feel part of their kindy or care setting.

Why We Focus on Functional Goals

Instead of teaching skills in isolation, our goals are practical and meaningful to your child’s life. Here are some real examples of functional goals we support:

• Washing hands before meals

• Sitting for family dinner or snack time

• Dressing independently for kindy

• Managing noise and sensory input at the playground

• Following a bedtime routine with fewer meltdowns

These are the types of goals that help families feel more connected and children feel more confident.

We Work With Families—In the Spaces That Matter

Our occupational therapists partner with families in the places that matter most: your home, your kindy, or out in the community.

We don’t just provide therapy—we coach, collaborate, and support. Whether we’re using visuals to help with morning routines or showing you a fun way to build hand strength with playdough, our work is always tailored to your child and your goals.

We also team up with educators and support coordinators to make sure everyone is on the same page. Consistency between home and kindy environments can make a big difference.

What Does a Session Look Like?

No two sessions are the same—but many include:

• 🧩 Play-based activities that are purposeful and goal-focused

• 🎯 Real-time coaching so you feel confident supporting your child at home

• 📋 Gentle assessments to track growth and progress

• 📚 Take-home supports like visuals, sensory ideas, and daily routines

• 💡 Practical advice for making your everyday moments feel easier and more connected

Let’s Work Together

If you're wondering whether occupational therapy in early intervention could support your child, we’d love to help. Our sessions are warm, flexible, and designed with your family in mind.

📍 Based in Woodville West, South Australia

📞 0460 885 008

📧 support@daybyday.kids

🌐 www.daybyday.kids

Let’s build your child’s skills and confidence—day by day.