What to expect from an OT assessment with Now, Next & Then
It’s completely natural for you or your child to feel a little uncertain before any type of interaction with a health care professional. At NNT, we want both you and your child to feel comfortable, informed, and confident from the very beginning. We are a fun bunch, and we do our absolute best for your child to leave having had a positive and enjoyable experience. In a short space of time, we can often give your child little tricks or tips that help them leave the room feeling that little bit taller. My favourite is teaching a child the trick to drawing 3d cubes with ease, or a quick technique to help them tie their laces without Mum or Dad’s help. We really do have the best job!
Before your appointment, Amy or Rose in our office will guide you through everything you need to know. They'll provide clear expectations about timings and what the assessment will involve (and where to park), so you'll feel well prepared before the day arrives. You’ll know in advance who your therapist will be and you can learn all about us on our website. It may help to show your child our pictures so they know who to expect. We can also send you a little video of our therapy setting if that helps you prepare your child.
Our assessments are anything but formal. We believe children show us their true abilities when they're relaxed, engaged, and having fun. Rather than expecting your child to complete a rigid set of tasks, our therapists take the time to build rapport and follow your child's lead. Every child is unique, and their individual needs, interests, and personality are at the heart of everything we do. We are also blessed with a wonderful outdoor space which children often enjoy exploring!
During the assessment, your child may spend some time completing activities at a table as well as some time moving around. The activities we choose depend entirely on the concerns you've shared with us and the goals you're hoping to achieve. We might explore areas such as perceptual skills, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, handwriting, or sensory processing skills. While we use standardised assessments within the appointment, these are always delivered in a playful and engaging way. We work hard to make the experience fun and in no way intimidating.
Most importantly, we want your child to leave the assessment feeling empowered and proud of what they have achieved. Our focus isn't simply on identifying challenges - it's about recognising strengths, celebrating successes, validating experiences and best understanding how we can support your child to thrive.
Louise Race
Children’s Occupational Therapist