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DR. KATHY SMOLEWSKA & ASSOCIATES

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy supports growth, independence, and participation in daily activities at home, school, and in the community. By focusing on play, self-care skills, sensory processing, and fine motor development, we help children overcome challenges related to physical, cognitive, or emotional difficulties. Through individualized, engaging interventions, occupational therapy empowers children to reach their full potential and thrive in all areas of life.
If Your Child or Teen Feels...
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  • Sad about being "different" or struggling with tasks that seem easy for others.

  • Like it's hard to make friends or understand others.

  • Embarrassed or self-conscious about what others may think of them.

  • Frustrated or upset about needing extra help.

  • Overwhelmed with different sights, sounds, textures, or tastes.

  • Uncomfortable with changes or transitions.

  • Like they can't control their feelings or impulses.

If You Feel...
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  • Unsure of where to start or how to help your child/teen.

  • Overwhelmed by your child/teen's frequent meltdowns.

  • Anxious about your child/teen's development or future.

  • Concerned that your child/teen won't be able to keep up with their peers.

  • Responsible for your child/teen's difficulties, like you could have done something differently

  • Worried that your child/teen won't have a "typical" childhood.

  • Alone or unsupported in helping your child/teen.

Small Steps, Big Achievements

Daily Living Skills

These skills include activities such as dressing, feeding, grooming, toileting, and managing personal belongings.

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Executive Functioning

Skills that help with planning, organizing, remembering information, starting tasks, and managing time effectively. These skills are essential for goal setting, problem-solving, and adapting to new situations. 

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Sensory Processing Assessments

Specialized evaluations that help understand how children perceive, interpret, and respond to sensory information from their environment. These assessments identify strengths and challenges in how a child processes sights, sounds, touch, movement, and other sensory input. By gaining insight into a child’s unique sensory profile, therapists and caregivers can develop personalized strategies to support comfort, attention, and participation in daily activities. 

Self Regulation

The ability to manage emotions, behaviours, and attention in different situations. Developing self-regulation skills is key to handling frustration, staying focused, adapting to changes, and interacting positively with others.

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Social Skills

These skills help with interacting, communicating, working cooperatively, and building relationships with others. They  include sharing, taking turns, listening, expressing feelings appropriately, and understanding social cues. 

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Gross & Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor skills involve the small muscles of the hands and fingers, enabling tasks like writing, drawing, and buttoning clothes. Gross motor skills use larger muscle groups for activities such as walking, jumping, climbing, and throwing. Together, these skills support children’s ability to participate in play, learning, and daily routines.

Our Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapy FAQs

Does your clinic offer Occupational Therapy (OT) sessions for adults, or only for children?​

Our main focus is providing occupational therapy for children, helping them develop the skills they need for everyday life. However, we understand that adults may also benefit from occupational therapy support. Some of our Occupational Therapists are able to offer sessions for adults, depending on their training and experience. If you or a loved one are interested in Adult Occupational Therapy, please take a look at our therapists’ bios to see who provides these services. You are also welcome to contact us directly—we are happy to help you find the right therapist for your needs.

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Why is it called "Occupational" Therapy?

The word “occupational” in Occupational Therapy does not mean a job—it means the daily tasks, or "occupations", and routines that are important for growing, learning, and living life to the fullest. For children, these occupations include things like playing, going to school, getting dressed, eating, and making friends. Occupational Therapists help children build the skills they need to do these important activities as independently as possible.

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What happens during an OT session?

While sessions often look like play, each activity is thoughtfully chosen to help your child develop important skills. We may use games, arts and crafts, obstacle courses, or hands-on activities to work on goals such as improving coordination, building strength, enhancing attention, or developing social skills. Throughout the session, we will encourage your child, offer guidance, and make adjustments to ensure activities are both fun and beneficial.

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Are parents/caregivers involved in sessions?

Absolutely! Parents and caregivers play a vital role in the OT process. We welcome your participation and want you to feel like an active partner in your child’s progress. Depending on your child’s needs and comfort level, you may be invited to observe sessions, join in certain activities, discuss your child’s strengths and challenges, and share updates about your child’s progress with the Occupational Therapist. We will also teach you strategies and activities you can use at home to ensure that the skills your child learns during OT sessions carry over into their everyday life, making therapy more effective and meaningful.

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Does needing OT mean something is “wrong” with my child?

Not at all. Every child grows and develops at their own pace, and it is completely normal for some children to need extra support in certain areas. It simply means that they may benefit from some additional guidance and practice to help them reach their fullest potential. OT is about supporting your child’s unique abilities and helping them feel successful and independent as they grow and learn.

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How long does my child need OT?

The length of time your child will need  OT varies based on their unique needs, strengths, and goals—some children benefit from just a few months, while others may need longer-term support. We will work with you to set goals, regularly monitor progress, and keep you updated about any changes. As your child improves, their therapy plan may be adjusted or sessions reduced. Therapy will continue only as long as it is helpful for your child’s development, and your input will always be valued in the decision-making process.

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Have Any Questions?

If you have questions about our therapy or assessment services, or would like to get in touch, we would love to hear from you! We also welcome you to schedule a free 20-minute Initial Consultation for therapy directly with one of our team members.

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