Pediatric Occupational Therapy
in Barcelona and Madrid

Pediatric occupational therapy supports children who experience difficulties with sensory processing, motor skills, coordination, development or everyday activities. At Peekaboo, we connect families with experienced occupational therapists who provide personalised support based on each child's strengths, needs and daily environment.
Occupational therapy can help children develop practical skills for greater participation and independence at home, at school and in everyday activities. Support may include sensory processing and regulation, fine and gross motor skills, coordination, motor planning, self-care skills and emotional regulation.

We also support children with autism, ADHD, developmental delays and other neurodevelopmental differences when occupational therapy may be helpful. The focus is on understanding how each child experiences and manages everyday activities and identifying practical strategies that can make these activities easier and more successful.

Sessions are available in English and Spanish and are adapted to each child's age, developmental stage and individual goals. Where appropriate, occupational therapists can also work alongside parents, schools and other professionals involved in the child's support.

What pediatric occupational therapy can help with

Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation
​Children may experience sensory sensitivities, become overwhelmed by sounds, textures or movement, or find it difficult to regulate their emotions and responses. Occupational therapy can help children understand and manage their sensory needs and develop practical strategies that make everyday activities more comfortable and manageable.

Fine Motor, Gross Motor and Coordinational Skills
​Occupational therapy can support children who have difficulties with coordination, balance, handwriting, using tools, dressing, or other activities that require motor skills. Activities are adapted to the child's abilities and can help build strength, coordination, motor planning and confidence.

Developmental Skills and Independence
Some children need additional support developing everyday skills such as dressing, eating, using the toilet, organising belongings or participating in routines at home and school. Occupational therapy focuses on practical skills that help children become more independent and participate more confidently in daily life.

Autism, ADHD and Neurodevelopmental Differences
Occupational therapy can support children with autism, ADHD, developmental delays and other neurodevelopmental differences when sensory, motor, emotional regulation or everyday functional challenges affect participation. Support is individualised and focuses on the child's strengths, needs and goals rather than the diagnosis alone.

How pediatric occupational therapy works

Occupational therapy is tailored to each child’s needs, strengths and everyday goals. The process begins by understanding how the child manages daily activities and identifying areas where additional support may be helpful.

Step 1
Understanding your child and their needsWe begin by speaking with parents about your child’s development, strengths, challenges and everyday activities at home and school. Where relevant, the occupational therapist may review previous assessments or information from other professionals to better understand your child’s needs.
Step 2
Occupational therapy assessment and individualised support
The occupational therapist identifies areas that may be affecting your child’s participation and independence, such as sensory processing, coordination, motor skills, emotional regulation or daily living skills. Support is then tailored to your child’s age, abilities and goals, using practical activities and strategies that are meaningful to them.
Step 3
Progress and collaboration
Occupational therapy evolves as your child develops new skills and their needs change. Where appropriate and with parental consent, the therapist can work with parents, schools and other professionals to help strategies carry over into everyday routines and environments

Who pediatric occupational therapy is suitable for

Pediatric occupational therapy may be helpful for children who experience difficulties with sensory processing, movement, coordination, development or everyday activities. Every child is different, so support is adapted to their individual strengths, needs and goals.

Occupational therapy may be helpful for children who:
Experience sensory sensitivities or become easily overwhelmed by sounds, textures, movement or other sensory experiences
Have difficulties with fine motor skills, handwriting, coordination, balance or motor planning
Find everyday activities such as dressing, eating, using utensils or managing routines challenging
Experience developmental delays or difficulties developing age-appropriate skills
Have autism, ADHD or other neurodevelopmental differences that affect participation in everyday activities
Have difficulties with emotional regulation that affect their ability to participate at home, at school or in social situations
Would benefit from support developing independence, confidence and practical everyday skills
​
Occupational therapy can take place in a suitable environment based on the child's needs and the therapist's approach. When helpful and with parental consent, the occupational therapist can also collaborate with parents, schools and other professionals involved in the child's support.

FAQ about neurodevelopment support

What is occupational therapy for children?​

Pediatric occupational therapy helps children develop the skills they need to participate more comfortably and independently in everyday activities. This may include support with sensory processing, motor skills, coordination, emotional regulation, self-care and other daily activities.
 

What can a pediatric occupational therapist help with?

Occupational therapy can support children with sensory processing difficulties, fine or gross motor challenges, coordination and motor planning, developmental delays, difficulties with everyday activities, and challenges with participation at home or school.

Can occupational therapy help children with autism or ADHD?

Yes. Occupational therapy may be helpful for children with autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental differences when sensory, motor, emotional regulation or functional difficulties affect everyday participation. Support is always based on the individual child's needs rather than their diagnosis alone.

Does my child need a diagnosis before starting occupational therapy?

No. A formal diagnosis is not always necessary. If you have concerns about your child's development, sensory processing, motor skills or ability to manage everyday activities, you can contact us to discuss whether occupational therapy may be appropriate.

What happens during an occupational therapy assessment?

The occupational therapist looks at the child's individual strengths and areas of difficulty, which may include sensory processing, movement, coordination, motor skills and everyday functional activities. The therapist then uses this information to identify appropriate goals and support.

Where do occupational therapy sessions take place?

Sessions take place in a suitable environment depending on the child's needs, the therapist's approach and the family's circumstances. We can discuss the available options when arranging the service.

How long does occupational therapy last?

The length and frequency of occupational therapy varies depending on the child's needs, goals and progress. Some children may benefit from short-term support around a specific difficulty, while others may need ongoing intervention.

Can occupational therapy work alongside other support?

Yes. Occupational therapy can complement psychological therapy, psychoeducational assessments, school support and other services when appropriate. With parental consent, the occupational therapist can also collaborate with parents, schools and other professionals involved in the child's support.