Allied Match guide

What happens at a child’s first occupational therapy appointment?

A first paediatric OT appointment usually combines a parent discussion, observation or play-based activities, and agreement on practical goals.

Published 21 September 2026 · 6 minute read

Quick answer

The occupational therapist will usually ask about your child’s strengths, daily routines and current difficulties, observe how your child approaches activities, and discuss priorities with you. The first session is often an assessment and goal-setting visit rather than a full therapy program.

Before the appointment

The practice may send an intake form asking about development, health history, school or childcare, daily routines and the reason for the appointment. Complete it honestly and include what your child does well, not only what is difficult.

If you have relevant reports from a GP, paediatrician, school, psychologist, speech pathologist or previous therapist, ask whether the OT would like them in advance. You do not need to arrive with a diagnosis or a perfectly organised file.

What the therapist may do

The exact format depends on your child’s age and the reason for referral. For a younger child, much of the observation may look like play. The therapist may notice movement, hand use, attention, sensory responses, communication, self-care skills and how your child responds when a task becomes difficult.

Some appointments include a formal assessment. Others focus first on conversation and clinical observation, with testing booked later if it is needed. Ask the practice beforehand if you want to know how long the session lasts and whether a written report is included.

The goals should connect to daily life

Paediatric occupational therapy is concerned with participation in everyday activities. A useful goal is usually more specific than ‘improve fine motor skills’. It may relate to dressing, mealtimes, handwriting, classroom participation, play, transitions or completing a morning routine with less help.

You and your child should have a voice in deciding what matters. The therapist may suggest a plan, home strategies, further assessment, coordination with school or another professional, or that OT is not the most suitable service for the concern.

What to bring

Bring only what will make the conversation clearer. A short list is enough.

Relevant reports or referral letters
A list of medicines or health conditions if relevant
Two or three examples of difficult daily situations
Your child’s usual communication or comfort items
Questions about fees, reports, session frequency and where therapy can occur

Common questions

Will my child be tested at the first OT appointment?

Possibly, but not always. Some therapists use formal assessments immediately; others begin with discussion and observation and arrange testing later.

Should I tell my child it is an assessment?

Use language that suits your child. Many families describe it as meeting someone who will learn about the activities that feel easy or hard. The therapist can advise you before the visit.

Can a parent stay in the room?

Often yes, especially for younger children, but the best setup depends on the child and the assessment. Ask the practice what it normally recommends.

What does a school-based occupational therapist do?Speech pathology at school: what should parents ask first?What happens at a child speech pathology assessment?

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This guide provides general information and is not medical advice, a diagnosis, a referral or an endorsement of a provider.