Children may have difficulties doing some things because of conditions they have been born with, an illness or injury. This can affect their independence, their health and how they feel about themselves.

Occupational therapists (also called 'OTs') can work with children of all ages and their families to help them do the things they want or have to do including playing, getting dressed, handwriting and sports. Occupational therapy also includes making changes to the child's school or home environment to help the child be more independent.

The occupational therapists at the RCH in Melbourne have developed some practical, user-friendly health information fact sheets. They are a resource for OT's, parents and older children in an occupational therapy intervention program.  Information includes:

• Pre-writing skills
• Holding and using a pen and pencil
• In-hand manipulation 
• Hand preference
• Encouraging babies and toddlers to use their hands
• Encouraging toddlers and children to use two hands
• Hand and finger strength 
• Hand, thumb and finger exercises and stretches
• FDP and FDS tenolysis exercises
• Supination exercises 
• Arm co-ordination, strength and endurance
• Shoulder stability and control 
• Playdough and exercise putty 
• Low muscle tone
• Splints and pressure garments
• Scar management 

Click here for the fact sheets

Developed by The Royal Children's Hospital OT Department. We acknowledge the input of RCH consumers and carers.

Reviewed June 2023 

Kids Health Info is supported by The Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation. To donate, visit www.rchfoundation.org.au.