Blog
OT Insights
Hi there! We’re so glad you’ve found your way to The Therapy Network’s blog. This is your go-to space for honest, practical, and heart-led insights into the world of paediatric occupational therapy. Whether you’re navigating meltdowns, messy mealtimes, tricky handwriting, or anything in between – you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place.
At The Therapy Network, our paediatric OTs are here to share tips, ideas, and stories that support your child’s development in ways that are fun, achievable, and rooted in connection. Let’s explore how we can help little ones grow, play, and shine – one small step at a time.
Power Up Those Little Hands: Building Strength Through Play (No Worksheets Needed!)
When people think about developing hand strength, they often picture endless handwriting practice or repetitive exercises. The good news is that children build stronger hands best through play. Every time they squeeze, pinch, pull, twist, climb, build, or create, they're strengthening the muscles needed for writing, dressing, eating, and becoming more independent. At The Therapy Network (TTN), we believe that the best therapy often looks like play. Our Occupational Therapists help children build strong, capable hands through fun, meaningful activities that fit naturally into everyday family life.
Beyond the Scores: How the ABAS Helps Us Understand Your Child’s Everyday Life
When families hear the word assessment, it's easy to imagine tests, scores and comparisons. But the Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System (ABAS) is very different. Rather than measuring intelligence or academic achievement, it helps Occupational Therapists understand how children manage the everyday skills that support independence, participation and quality of life. From getting dressed and communicating with others to following routines and participating in the community, the ABAS provides valuable insights into what life looks like beyond the clinic. At The Therapy Network (TTN), we use the ABAS as part of comprehensive Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) to better understand each child's strengths, identify areas where support may be needed, and develop meaningful recommendations that help children thrive at home, school and in the community.
Looking Beyond the Diagnosis: How WHODAS Helps Tell Your Child’s Everyday Story
When families begin the NDIS process, one of the biggest surprises is the number of questionnaires involved in a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA). It's natural to wonder why they're needed. The answer is simple: the NDIS doesn't fund a diagnosis—it funds the impact that diagnosis has on everyday life. One of the key evidence-based tools Occupational Therapists use to understand this impact is the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0). In this blog, we explain what the WHODAS measures, why it plays such an important role in Functional Capacity Assessments, and how it helps families, therapists and the NDIS gain a clearer understanding of a person's strengths, challenges and support needs.
More Than a Score: Understanding the PEDI-CAT and How It Helps Tell Your Child’s Story
When families hear that their child will be completing a PEDI-CAT assessment, they often wonder what it involves and why it's important. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory – Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT) is much more than a questionnaire—it is an evidence-based assessment that helps Occupational Therapists understand how children participate in everyday life. From dressing and mealtimes to mobility, communication and social participation, the PEDI-CAT provides valuable insights into a child's strengths, areas of challenge and support needs. In this blog, we explain what the PEDI-CAT measures, how it contributes to Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) and NDIS planning, and why it plays such an important role in helping children achieve greater independence and participation.
Tiny Backpack, Big Milestone: An OT’s Perspective on Starting Childcare
Starting childcare is one of the first major transitions in a young child's life—and often one of the most emotional for parents too. In this month's OT Insight, Rebecca shares her personal experience as her son Tommy began childcare and reflects on the practical preparations, emotional challenges, and incredible developmental opportunities this milestone brings. Plus, we've included a practical Childcare Transition Checklist and occupational therapy tips to help your family feel prepared and supported through this exciting new chapter.
Ready, Set, Go! Is Your Child Ready for Toilet Training? A Gentle Guide for Families
Toilet training is one of the biggest milestones of early childhood—but success isn't determined by age alone. True readiness involves physical development, body awareness, communication, sensory processing, and emotional confidence. In this blog, we explore the signs that your child may be ready to begin their toileting journey, share practical Occupational Therapy strategies to make the process positive and stress-free, and explain when it may be helpful to seek additional support. Discover how following your child's lead can build confidence, independence, and long-term success.