Overview
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive—and occupational therapy (OT) plays a vital role in making that happen. Recently, we sat down with Michelle Brown, our dedicated occupational therapist and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, to discuss the impact of OT, common misconceptions about autism, and how parents can support their child’s development.
With May being National Speech, Language and Hearing Month, there’s no better time to highlight how OT helps children build confidence, gain independence, and navigate their world with ease.
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive—and occupational therapy (OT) plays a vital role in making that happen. Recently, we sat down with Michelle Brown, our dedicated occupational therapist and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, to discuss the impact of OT, common misconceptions about autism, and how parents can support their child’s development.
With May being National Speech, Language and Hearing Month, there’s no better time to highlight how OT helps children build confidence, gain independence, and navigate their world with ease.
What Is Occupational Therapy?
Many people think of occupational therapy as something that helps adults regain mobility after an injury, but for children—especially those with autism or developmental delays—OT is about building skills for everyday life.
“As a school-based occupational therapist, my role is to ensure students have access to their education—whether that’s physical, environmental, or cognitive access,” Brown explains.
For children in early intervention (ages 0-3) or pediatric clinics, occupational therapists help with:
- Developing fine and gross motor skills (holding a bottle, using utensils, writing)
- Building sensory processing skills (handling bright lights, loud noises, or textures)
- Improving attention and socialization (learning through play and interaction)
In essence, occupational therapy helps children become more independent in their “occupations”—whether that’s playing, learning, or engaging with their environment.
How Occupational Therapy Supports Children with Autism
One of the most crucial roles of an occupational therapist is creating an environment that allows children to learn and grow at their own pace.
For example, a child who is sensitive to bright lights or loud sounds may struggle to focus in a noisy classroom. An OT can help by:
🔹 Adjusting classroom lighting to reduce sensory overload
🔹 Providing noise-canceling headphones or a quiet space for breaks
🔹 Using weighted blankets or sensory tools to help with self-regulation
It’s all about meeting the child where they are and setting them up for success.
Common Misconceptions About Autism
As Brown pointed out, one of the biggest misconceptions about children on the autism spectrum is that non-verbal means non-understanding.
“People often assume that children with autism, especially those who don’t speak, aren’t picking up on conversations around them,” Brown says. “But they’re absorbing everything—even if they can’t verbalize their thoughts.”
Another misunderstanding? Sensory behaviors should be ‘fixed.’
“Some children with autism may hum, flap their hands, or rock back and forth. These are ways they self-regulate,” Brown explains. “Rather than stopping these behaviors, we focus on adapting the environment to support their needs.”
How Occupational Therapy Builds Confidence
One of the most rewarding parts of Brown’s job is watching children gain confidence through therapy. She recalls a three-year-old client with severe motor delays who couldn’t sit up independently, play, or reach for toys.
“After months of therapy—helping him strengthen his muscles, build core stability, and develop movement—he was finally able to sit up, grab toys, and engage with his environment,” Brown shares.
Seeing a child light up with joy as they master a new skill is a reminder that small wins lead to big changes.
Speech Therapy + Occupational Therapy: A Powerful Partnership
Occupational therapy and speech therapy often go hand in hand. Brown works closely with speech therapists to support children with feeding challenges, posture, and communication skills.
“A speech therapist may be focused on helping a child form words, while I’m ensuring their posture supports proper breath control for speaking,” she explains. “By working together, we create a holistic approach to a child’s development.”
OTs and speech therapists collaborate to:
- Improve motor skills needed for speech (like tongue and jaw movement)
- Support feeding and swallowing difficulties
- Use visual aids, sign language, or AAC devices for non-verbal children
This teamwork ensures that children receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.
Advice for Parents Considering Occupational Therapy
Not sure if occupational therapy is the right step for your child? Brown encourages parents to trust their instincts and ask questions.
“It’s always better to err on the side of caution and have a consultation,” she says. “Even if your child doesn’t need ongoing OT, an evaluation can offer strategies to support their development at home.”
At Unlimited Expressions, we’re here to help. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, we believe in empowering every child with the tools they need to thrive. Want to learn more? Contact us today to explore how occupational therapy can support your child’s journey!