“If you tell me, I forget...
If you show me, I see...
If you involve me, I understand”

Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Norwood, Hingham & Surrounding Areas

Occupational therapy (OT) supports children in doing the things that matter most to them; playing, learning, connecting,

and participating in everyday life. 


An “occupation” is any meaningful activity a person engages in throughout their day.

For children, this includes play, self-care, social interaction, and learning.

As children grow, they develop skills that support independence, confidence, and participation in these daily routines. 


At South Shore Therapies, we take a child-led, play-based, and neurodiversity-affirming approach,

recognizing and honoring each child’s unique strengths, interests, and ways of experiencing the world.

How We Can Support Your Child

Our occupational therapists address the foundational skills a child needs to be successful across environments; adapting environments and activities so a child can experience success at each step in the process as they move towards independence. We collaborate with families to build on each child’s strengths while supporting areas that may feel challenging. 

We may support your child with:

  • Sensory processing & regulation: Helping children better understand and respond to sensory input in ways that supports arousal levels and overall participation
  • Emotional regulation & self-awareness: Building individualized strategies for navigating big feelings
  • Play & social participation: Supporting connection, flexibility, and engagement with others
  • Early development (infants & toddlers): Supporting foundational skills such as sensory regulation, early movement, play, and daily routines
  • Fine motor skills: Skills for drawing, writing, dressing, and using tools 
  • Gross motor & balance: Supporting strength, coordination, posture, and body awareness for movement, play, and everyday activities 
  • Visual perception & functional vision skills: Helping children interpret and make sense of what they see to support tasks like puzzles, reading readiness, and navigation of their environment 
  • Eye-hand coordination & ball skills: Developing coordination for catching, throwing, hitting targets, and participating in play and sports 
  • Daily living skills: Routines like dressing, feeding, grooming, and transitions 
  • Motor planning & coordination: Learning new movements and completing everyday tasks 
  • Executive functioning: Organization, flexibility, attention, and task completion

Many of our therapists are trained in specialized therapy programs to support progress towards individual goals. See the Specialized Programs page for more information. 

Child swinging on a red sensory swing while another child and an adult sit nearby in a playroom
Child on hanging gym rings in a playful indoor ocean-themed room, smiling on colorful cushions.

Our Approach

We meet children where they are. Therapy sessions are play-based and guided by each child’s interests, creating meaningful opportunities for growth and development. 


Our approach includes: 

  • Sensory integrative and sensory-motor intervention
  • Relationship-based, connection focused
  • Respect for autonomy, communication, and consent
  • Collaboration with caregivers to support carryover into daily life

We focus on creating a supportive environment where children feel safe, capable, and empowered.

What Occupational Therapy May Look Like

Sessions are dynamic and individualized. They may include movement, creativity, problem-solving, and play. 

Progress can look like:

  • Increased confidence in daily routines 
  • Greater independence and flexibility 
  • Expanded play and social engagement 
  • Improved ability to regulate, recover, and participate

Every child’s path is different and all progress is meaningful.

Evaluations & Individualized Care

We take time to understand the whole child, starting with a free intake call with our clinical team to learn more about your child. If recommended, we complete a comprehensive evaluation and create an individualized treatment plan based on your child’s strengths, goals, and needs.


We may assess and support areas such as:

  • Sensory processing 
  • Fine motor and visual motor skills 
  • Self-care and daily routines 
  • Feeding and oral motor skills 
  • Regulation and attention 

Partnering With Families

Caregivers are an essential part of the therapy process. We prioritize collaboration, communication, and practical strategies that fit naturally into your everyday routines..

Child drawing at a table while an adult smiles beside her, with markers and craft supplies nearby.

When to Reach Out

If your child experiences challenges that impact their participation in daily life, we’re here to help. 


You might consider OT support if your child:

  • Has difficulty with coordination or learning new motor skills 
  • Becomes easily overwhelmed or seeks out intense sensory input 
  • Has trouble with daily routines like dressing, feeding, or transitions 
  • Struggles with attention, flexibility, or organization 
  • Finds it hard to engage in play or social interactions


Not every child needs a diagnosis to benefit from support. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to talk through your concerns. South Shore Therapies is here to support you and your child every step of the way. If you have questions or would like to learn more, reach out to our team to get started.