Occupational Therapy Ideas for Homework

Here are some ways to support your child at home if they are having OT:

• Remember the pyramid of learning - don't just concentrate on the academics but the foundations of learning
• Play with your child - let them guide the play
• With homework allow 'movement breaks' (short breaks such as trampoline, jumping on the spot, climbing) rather than insisting the task is completed before a break.
• First plan the homework ' talk about a plan of attack with your child: pan, plan, plan, then begin. Make sure your child knows when and where the end is (especially boys) and work out short, achievable goals.
• Do homework in different body positions - sitting, standing at a vertical surface, lying on the floor on tummy (short bursts) with elbows bent and symmetrical.
• Some children need to fiddle to concentrate - so let them, but not to distraction.
• Hand strengthening is important for handwriting improvement.
• Be aware of child's sensory processing - 'calm, alert state for learning' is optimal.

Taken from an article in LDC (Learning Difficulties Coalition) Newsletter