Knowing what type of healthcare route you want to go down can be challenging, especially due to the vast amount of options available to you. Here are a few reasons on why you should become a pediatric occupational therapist.
What is Occupational Therapy?
The role of a pediatric occupational therapist is to help give aid and assistance to a child to help them function in their day to day lives. A pediatric occupational therapist is there to help a child develop the skills and tools they need to gain independence as they grow into adulthood. There are many attributes that can hinder a child’s ability to function able bodied so having somebody there as early as possible is essential for the child to learn and develop the skills they need to be able to progress. The children you see will fall into various categories which helps establish the type of help and care they need.
Equipment
A big part of being a pediatric occupational therapist is by spending time with a child to help identify their needs and to be able to implement sufficient guidelines and recommendations to help the child flourish. To do this, you will need to engage with the child on a personal level by playing games and using toys to help the child feel at ease and get the results you need. Whilst the main goal of occupational therapy is to help the child progress, it is important to challenge them to help the child gain confidence and boost their self-esteem regarding their capabilities.
Working Environment
Depending on the age of the child, a pediatric occupational therapist will be required to work in a variety of establishments. These include hospitals, schools, private facilities as well as physical therapy clinics. In some instances, a therapist may be required to work in the patients home as well as possibly travel to different facilities across the country. It is also important to research into the salary you could earn in your career and the ability to progress to a higher field.
Making a Difference
Many who are already in the profession say that the best part of the job is making a difference in a child’s life. Being there every step of the way from childhood to adolescence gives you a sense of purpose and wellbeing, ensuring that the child gains the confidence and ability they need to grow and mature in life. Being there to help change their life and give them a more positive outlook on life is the main factor in becoming a pediatric occupational therapist. Occupational therapists such as the ones found on optimal support and similar sites could prove useful to you when you are on the lookout for one!
Training Programs
Before a pediatric occupational therapist can begin work, they are required to go through training and exams and must hold a master’s degree. The typical duration of a degree lasts for two years which involves theory and practical training to complete the course. Finding the best OT programs in your area can help give you more information and guidance on whether it is the right route for you to go down.
If you require more information on what it takes to be a pediatric occupational therapist, ensure you look at specialist websites where you will be able to find the help you need.