What is a pediatric occupational therapist?

Pediatric occupational therapists work to help children develop the skills they need to participate in everyday activities - like playing, getting dressed, or holding a pencil - by supporting their motor, sensory, and cognitive development. Through occupational therapy (OT), children can reach key developmental milestones and gain important self-regulation skills that help them to interact with the world around them. 

At Kelly Pediatric Therapy, we work alongside many pediatric OTs who help students make the most of the time they’re in school, both academically and socially. 

Qualifications for a pediatric occupational therapist. 

Pediatric occupational therapists must meet specific guidelines set out by the state and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). This begins with schooling and a degree in Occupational Therapy from a certified Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) school.  

Pediatric OTs will also have to earn a state-issued license in occupational therapy. In order to earn this license, a pediatric OT must:  

• Graduate from an ACOTE-accredited program  
• Complete 6 months of supervised Fieldwork 
• Pass the NBCOT exam 
• Submit the application for Licensure 
• Pass a criminal background check 

AOTA also offers specialty certifications in pediatric therapy, including a specialty certification for School Systems. Administrators looking for occupational therapists for their schools may find the pediatric occupational therapy certificates a helpful indicator that OT may specialize in working with children.  

Where can pediatric occupational therapists work? 

Occupational therapists can work in a variety of locations, from patients’ homes to healthcare centers. Pediatric occupational therapists may also work in schools. Many schools consider staffing physical and occupational therapists to help children with disabilities get better access to their education and help them meet important childhood milestones.  

Pediatric OTs in schools may have sessions with children during the school day to dedicate specific time to enhancing fine motor skills or self-regulation. They will also develop treatment plans in collaboration with teachers and parents who can also participate in facilitating and monitoring a child’s progress and the areas in which they may struggle.  

School-based pediatric OTs may also find it beneficial to help out in the classroom or create activities teachers can use in the classroom that may benefit all children and help them develop improved fine motor skills. With the help of an OT, teachers and administrators can keep more students in general education classrooms.  

Benefits of school-based occupational therapy for children.  

Occupational therapy can really benefit children. It gives them an opportunity to interact with the world around them more independently, which in turn improves their self-confidence. More confidence can lead to a better overall learning experience for children in the classroom. 

Self-regulation is a big goal for children. They’re experiencing a lot of the world for the first time, and that can be overwhelming. Pediatric occupational therapists teach children the skills to help them feel more in control, regulate how they react to new things, and problem-solve with creativity.  

Grow your career with Kelly Pediatric Therapy.

At Kelly Pediatric Therapy we work with occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, psychologists, mental health professionals, and other clinicians to help you find the right school-based placements.

If you're looking to move forward in your professional career in a way that supports growth, balance, and impact—consider working with us as a school-based therapist.

When you work with Kelly Pediatric Therapy, you’ll enjoy competitive pay, compensation for documentation, access to mentorship, free professional development, and work-free nights, weekends, and holidays. 

Learn more about joining our team.