Would My Child Benefit From Outdoor OT?
by Sara Kula
OTR/L
A big question parents ask when considering Outdoor OT for their child is “Does outdoor OT work on the same skills as clinic-based sessions?” Yes, it does!
Therapy held in a natural environment is designed to help children develop gross motor skills, fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-regulation, higher-level thinking (executive functioning), self-confidence, play, self-care, and more. Outdoor sessions are still considered occupational therapy. The natural setting simply provides unique challenges and benefits that enrich the session in ways that cannot be done inside.
As part of being flexible and adapting to the changes, the nature of the play materials allows for many possibilities that indoor toys may not be able to provide. In nature, a log can become a balance beam or climbing obstacle. A stick can become a magic wand or utensil to stir up some mud pies. A rock can become a piece of art or a heavy item to provide sensory feedback to the body for regulation. The myriad ways natural materials are used in therapy provide endless opportunities for play and learning. Since families have access to outdoor spaces such as local parks, and even their own backyards, the carryover of activities and strategies from the clinic to the outdoors is easy!
Here are a few activities that you can try outdoors with your family:
Go on a scavenger hunt and try to look for something of each color in nature.
Dig in dirt or mud to help strengthen arms and core
Blow on dandelions to practice taking slow, deep breaths for relaxation
Walk across rocks on a stream or a large log for balance and body control
There are many other activities and strategies your child’s therapist can use to help develop their skills in a natural setting. The best part? Therapy will be tailored to your child’s preferences or comfort level with various outdoor sensations and materials. This unique therapy setting can be engaging both for children who love the outdoors and children still learning to become comfortable in nature.
If you have any questions or wonder whether outdoor OT would benefit your child, please contact the KTL today. We’re here to help!