Occupational Therapy can be very beneficial for children with ADHD in helping them become successful and more independent across all environments. Occupational therapists can assist in helping your child:
Improving executive functioning skills such as attention, planning, memory, and organization
Creating strategies and adaptations for the executive functioning skills. For example, an occupational therapist can help your child break down tasks into manageable steps. An OT can also help your child utilize organizational strategies at school and at home such as creating lists or schedules
Developing a sensory diet which will provide your child with activities that provide the sensory input needed to help calm his/her body so they can better focus and attend. For example, and OT may have your child complete heavy work activities or yoga poses before a seated task to help them stay more organized and calm.
Utilizing self-regulation strategies such as deep breathing to help decrease hyperactivity and improve attention to tasks
Adapting the environment to eliminate distractions to improve focus. For example, decluttering or having them sit in the front row in class so they are less visually distracted
Occupational therapists can help children with ADHD to build these skills, among others, through a range of therapeutic strategies. Having your child receive occupational therapy can help your child be successful at school, home and executive functioning.