Child development in the early years is characterized by the progressive acquisition of such important functions as postural control, autonomy in movement, communication, verbal language and social interaction. This evolution is the result of the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. In this way, and taking into account the important plasticity of the Nervous System in these early stages, the earlier the intervention, the less the delay in development will be.
The occupational therapist (OT) will evaluate and treat the components that intervene in the child's occupational performance and are affected, such as:
Engines
Pediatricians sometimes have the problem of not knowing which professionals to refer children with different motor problems. A different view of treatment is important for both prevention and intervention.
- Coordination
- Balance
- Muscle tone and strength
- Position
- Motor skills thick and thin
- Laterality
Perceptual Cognitive
Cognitive development is the process by which a child acquires knowledge about his or her environment and thus develops his or her abilities and intelligence. It begins from birth and continues throughout childhood and adolescence.
- Proprioceptive and exteroceptive sensations.
- Auditory, visual and tactile perceptions.
- Associate, discriminate and name spatial/temporal concepts.
- Shapes, colors and sizes.
- Attention and memory.
- Language (gestural, verbal, graphic or plastic; comprehension and expression).
- Imagination and creativity.
- Ability to solve problems.
- Anticipation.
Affectionate Partner
Socio-affective development in children is a key moment that will have an impact on their future personality later on. For this reason, attachment figures will be crucial for their emotional growth and will shape their personality as an adult.
- Interest in the physical and human environment.
- Basic communication requirements (eye contact, body contact, correct posture, communicative intention, establishment of turns...).
- Knowledge of its possibilities and limitations.
- Fears and insecurities.
- Initiative.
- Frustration tolerance. Understanding of basic rules.
Thus, the TO will therapeutically use activities of daily living, school learning and play in children who have developmental disorders or are at risk of suffering from them, in order to maximize their independence, prevent disability, improve development and maintain health.