I am an occupational therapist

So, here I am at Red Robin HQ (does that make it the Robin's Nest?), writing my first blog, and apparently stating the obvious. To explain, November 6-12 2017 is OT week, and these words are this year's theme. The challenge is for each OT to introduce themselves to those they work with, and highlight the unique benefits of the profession. Who wouldn't blog about that?!

I've been an OT for nearly 24 years, and have worked with children for 23 of those. To be honest, I didn't intend to work with children, but had poorly researched a job I applied for (I got better at research as the years went on - I even got a Master's degree in it, but that's by the way). Anyway, one unexpected school for children with learning disabilities later, and a lifelong passion for paediatrics was born. The rest, as they say, is history..

So, what does an OT do? Well, it's all about independence - being able to do daily activities, like washing, dressing, toileting, bathing, and feeding.  It's also about whatever is meaningful in terms of work and leisure - things which make rounded individuals, give purpose and add quality to lives. When someone has difficulty due to illness, disability or injury, the OT's role is to help the person gain as much independence as possible by enabling them to regain skills or teaching them new ways of doing things.

Q: How many OTs does it take to change a light bulb? 
A: None, it has to do it by itself...

With children, the principles are the same. But as the main learning routes for children are play and school, the focus is on developing play skills, and/or helping children cope at school. But the end result is the same - as much independence as possible. For OT week, the Royal College of OT got Miffy to explain OT for children. I love it, Miffy was my favourite when I was little!
​(You can see the full poster here: 
www.rcot.co.uk/promoting-occupational-therapy/otweek). 

Would I change being an OT?
​Absolutely not. I decided I wanted to be an OT when I was 17, and I haven't looked back once! 

If you have any questions about OT or how it can help your child, just use the Contact Us link.