What Happens During a Pediatric Therapy Assessment?

Why Assessments Are Important
Assessments allow therapists to:
• Identify developmental challenges
• Understand a child’s strengths
• Determine appropriate therapy goals
• Create an individualized support plan

The goal is to build a clear picture of how a child participates in daily activities.

What Happens During the Assessment
Assessments typically include several components.

Parent and/or Caregiver Discussion
Therapists begin by speaking with parents about:
• Developmental history
• Current concerns
• School experiences
• Daily routines

Parents and caregivers play an important role in providing insight into their child’s experiences.

Observation and Activities
Based on the profession, children may participate in activities designed to assess specific skills, such as:
• Motor coordination
• Communication abilities
• Attention and regulation
• Problem solving
• Handwriting

These activities are often play-based so children feel comfortable.

Standardized Assessments
Therapists may use structured assessment tools to better understand developmental skills.

These tools help compare a child’s abilities with typical developmental expectations.

What Happens After the Assessment
After the assessment, therapists typically:
• Review results with the family
• Discuss recommendation
• Develop therapy goals
Families also receive a comprehensive written report summarizing the assessment findings.

Pediatric Therapy Assessments in Ontario
Many families in Ontario choose private assessments to receive timely guidance and support.

At Oaknine Healthcare, assessments are designed to be collaborative, supportive, and focused on helping families understand their child’s development. Therapy sessions are offered in-home or virtually, helping make services more accessible for families and allowing therapy to take place within a child’s natural routines.

Providing therapy in familiar environments can help children feel more comfortable and engaged, while also allowing therapists to develop strategies that fit naturally into everyday life. Virtual sessions can also be a flexible option for families who prefer support from home or benefit from parent coaching.

Our therapists work collaboratively with families to create practical strategies that support children’s participation, independence, and confidence in daily activities at home and school. The goal is to make therapy accessible, engaging, and meaningful, while supporting each child’s unique strengths and needs.

Final Thoughts
An assessment is simply the first step in understanding how best to support a child. For many families, it provides clarity and practical guidance moving forward.

If you have concerns about your child’s development, we’d love to connect to discuss how occupational therapy might help.

Learn more about our services here!

Alyson Oaknine, Founder and Occupational Therapist, OT Reg. (Ont.)

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace individualized assessment or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.