When families first begin occupational therapy, they often expect that their occupational therapist will only work directly with their child. While 1:1 child sessions and activities are definitely part of the support we provide, our approach extends beyond purely traditional therapist-led sessions. Our therapists use what we call a coach approach, with a strong focus on parent education and collaboration. This approach is centred on empowering parents and caregivers to support their child’s participation in everyday life.
The goal of our coaching approach is to empower parents and caregivers to the point where our support is no longer needed. By building the capacity and confidence of parents and caregivers, we aim to ensure that progress continues naturally in your everyday routines, helping your child reach their goals sooner, and giving you strategies you can use for new challenges as they arise.
What Is a Coach Approach?
The coach approach is a model of therapy where an occupational therapist works in partnership with parents and caregivers, guiding them to become confident and capable in supporting their child to work towards their identified goals. Rather than the therapist “doing therapy to” the child, the focus is on doing therapy with the family.
Think of it as a shared process. The therapist provides the professional knowledge and strategies, while parents contribute their strong understanding of their child – their routines, preferences, challenges, and strengths. Together, we develop practical, tailored approaches that fit naturally into your daily life.
It’s important to note that this model does not place responsibility solely on parents – it builds a partnership. We remain actively involved, providing guidance, feedback, and professional insight. Together, we work toward shared goals that align with your child’s needs, your family’s routines, and your values.
Why Parent Education Matters
Parent education is a central part of occupational therapy, and a foundational part of how we work at Kids That Go! because children spend the majority of their time with their families – not in therapy sessions. This allows parents to be active participants in problem solving and developing strategies for both their child and their family as a whole. In addition, as therapy is then occurring across all environments, children develop skills more effectively which results in lasting change.
Here are some key benefits of this approach:
- Consistency and Carryover
Strategies are most effective when they are used consistently. By learning and applying therapeutic techniques across everyday contexts, parents create more opportunities for their child to practice and succeed. - Empowering Parents as Experts
Parents know their child best. Through education and coaching, parents gain a deeper understanding of their child’s needs and become confident in adjusting strategies to suit different situations. - Sustainable Progress
Skills developed in therapy are more likely to generalise across home, school, and community settings when parents are actively involved. This means progress continues well beyond the therapy room. - Strengthened Family Relationships
A collaborative approach reduces stress and uncertainty for parents. It shifts the focus from “What is the therapist doing?” to “How can we work together to support my child?” – fostering connection, understanding, and confidence.
What This Looks Like in Practice
In sessions, we take time to understand your child’s strengths, challenges, and daily routines. We will engage parents and children in discussion and problem solving of challenge areas, explain strategies clearly and demonstrate techniques, inviting you to observe, ask questions, and try them out in a supportive environment. Of course, sessions will also involve child-led activities and learning through play, making sure your child is engaged and having fun while learning!
Between sessions, we encourage families to practise these strategies at home and share feedback about what worked and what didn’t. Each session builds on the last, refining and adapting approaches as your child grows and develops. With the aim that over time, parents become increasingly confident and independent, while our role shifts toward guidance and consultation.
Why This Approach Works in Paediatric Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy for children focuses on helping them participate meaningfully in their daily activities, like self-care, play, school, and community life. Because these skills are developed and reinforced in natural environments, it makes sense for the people who are present in those environments (e.g. parents, caregivers, and educators) to take an active role.
The coach approach allows therapy to extend beyond the clinic. It supports not only skill development but also problem-solving, adaptability, and resilience. When parents are educated and involved, therapy becomes more flexible, relevant, and sustainable. This approach ensures that strategies are meaningful and adaptable as children grow, routines change, and new challenges arise.
For all of these reasons, this approach is also a great option if you can only access telehealth therapy!
In Summary
Our coach approach in paediatric occupational therapy is designed to empower families. By combining professional expertise with parent education and everyday practice, we aim to build confidence, competence, and lasting progress for your child.
When families and therapists work together, real and meaningful change happens – not just during therapy sessions, but in all the moments that make up a child’s life.
If you’d like to learn more about how this approach could support your child and family, please reach out. We’d be delighted to discuss how we can work together toward your goals.
MEGAN WEST
Occupational Therapist
