Occupational Therapy for Autism and ADHD
Helping Children Succeed in the Classroom with Tailored Strategies
Occupational therapy (OT) can significantly help children with autism and ADHD by improving their ability to participate in daily activities and achieve their full potential.
OT focuses on developing skills like sensory processing, motor coordination, social interaction, and self-regulation, which can be challenging for individuals with these conditions.
Supporting Sensory, Social, and Motor Development in Neurodiverse Children
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often experience challenges that affect daily life, from self-care routines to classroom participation.
At KidsHeart Medical Center, our pediatric occupational therapists provide individualized support that respects each child’s neurodiversity.
We help children build sensory regulation, social engagement, motor coordination, and independence, with practical strategies that carry over into everyday life.
This therapy is available as part of our Pediatric Occupational Therapy services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain.
How OT Helps Children with Autism and ADHD
For children with autism:
- Sensory Integration:
OT can help children with autism manage sensory sensitivities (hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity) through activities that help regulate their responses to sensory input, such as swinging, deep pressure, and tactile exploration. - Motor Skills Development:
OT uses play-based activities to improve gross and fine motor skills, including coordination, balance, strength, and dexterity. - Daily Living Skills:
OT can assist with developing skills for daily living tasks like dressing, feeding, and hygiene. - Social Skills:
OT can help children learn to interact with peers, manage emotions, and improve communication skills through structured play and social situations. - Focus and Attention:
OT can help children learn to focus on tasks, manage their attention, and develop strategies for improved concentration.
For children with ADHD:
- Time Management and Organization:
OT helps children develop strategies for time management, organization, and planning, which can be challenging with ADHD. concentration. - Self-Regulation:
OT can improve a child’s ability to regulate their emotions and behavior, including managing impulsivity and hyperactivity. - Motor Skills:
OT can address motor coordination difficulties and improve fine motor skills needed for handwriting and other tasks. - Sensory Processing:
OT can help children with ADHD manage sensory sensitivities and develop strategies for sensory regulation. - Social Skills:
OT can help children with ADHD improve their social skills through play-based activities and social interactions.
When to Consider Occupational Therapy
You may want an evaluation if your child:
- Struggles with everyday tasks like dressing, eating, or hygiene
- Has frequent meltdowns or difficulty with transitions
- Avoids or overreacts to sensory input (sounds, textures, movement)
- Has trouble sitting still, focusing, or completing tasks
- Struggles with handwriting, cutting, or motor coordination
- Needs help building routines, attention, or social participation
Support early on can reduce frustration and build lifelong skills.
What to Expect in Therapy
Therapy is customized based on your child’s profile, age, and needs. Sessions may include:
- Sensory integration strategies to support regulation
- Fine motor work for daily tasks and school skills
- Play-based social skill development and emotional coaching
- Movement-based activities to improve body awareness and focus
- Visual schedules, timers, or tools to support transitions and routines
- Parent guidance on managing behaviors and building structure at home
We take a strengths-based, neuro-affirming approach — focused on what works for your child.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
- Therapists experienced in working with neurodiverse children
- Sensory-friendly environments tailored for comfort and success
- Individualized plans based on real-world goals
- Respectful, inclusive care that supports the whole family
- Convenient access across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain
We believe in supporting each child’s unique brain and journey, not changing who they are, but helping them thrive.
Helping Neurodiverse Kids Build Everyday Strengths
At KidsHeart, we honor how your child learns, plays, and experiences the world — and we help build the skills that support success, comfort, and connection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. We support based on needs, not labels. An evaluation can still be helpful.
No. OT addresses functional and sensory needs and can complement behavioral or psychological therapies.
We adjust the environment and pace to meet each child’s sensory profile — always working gently and respectfully.
Yes. We support attention, handwriting, transitions, and more, often in coordination with teachers.
Definitely. Family involvement is encouraged to support carryover at home.