What made you want to become an Occupational Therapist?
During my time in school, I developed a keen interest in working with children with additional needs. This initial exposure sparked a deeper desire to make a difference in their lives. After working with children with autism, I became increasingly motivated to expand my impact. I discovered the field of occupational therapy and decided to deepen my understanding of child development and enhance my ability to help children engage meaningfully in daily activities. This transition allows me to integrate therapeutic techniques into my intervention, ensuring a holistic approach to each child's learning and development.
In your years in occupational therapy, what have you learnt the most?
I’ve learned that even everyday tasks, like putting on shoes, can be surprisingly complex for some children. I believe that everyone learns and progresses at their own pace. As an occupational therapist, I identify possible barriers that may hinder a child's participation in daily activities as well as analyzing a child’s skills to identify areas where they may be lagging behind. This understanding has shown me how crucial it is to offer personalized therapy plans with support and patience, recognizing that each person has their own unique needs and challenges. In order to help children develop the necessary skills to complete everyday tasks more independently, I use a systematic approach to ensure that each child receives the support they need to thrive and reach their full potential.