Occupational therapy exercises for kids

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in helping children develop the skills they need for everyday life—whether it’s holding a pencil, getting dressed, staying focused in class, or managing emotions. Through structured activities and playful routines, occupational therapy exercises for kids build coordination, strength, sensory processing, and independence.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our pediatric occupational therapists design fun, age-appropriate activities that help children reach important developmental milestones. Whether your child has autism, ADHD, sensory issues, or motor delays, the right exercises can make learning and daily routines easier and more enjoyable.

What Is Pediatric Occupational Therapy?

Pediatric occupational therapy (OT) supports children in developing the physical, cognitive, sensory, and social-emotional skills needed for success at home, school, and in the community. Therapy may focus on:

• Fine motor skills (e.g., using scissors, writing, tying shoes)

• Gross motor coordination (e.g., balance, posture, body awareness)

• Sensory integration (managing reactions to light, sound, textures)

• Self-regulation and emotional control

• Daily living skills (e.g., dressing, feeding, hygiene)

At OrbRom Center, our occupational therapists work with children one-on-one or in small groups, often as part of our inclusive preschool or intensive intervention program.

10 Occupational Therapy Exercises for Kids

Here are some engaging, therapist-recommended activities parents and educators can use at home or in class to support child development.

1. Animal Walks

Crawl like a bear, hop like a frog, or waddle like a duck! These gross motor exercises improve coordination, strength, and body awareness.

2. Play Dough Squeezes and Pinches

Let your child roll, flatten, and cut play dough. This strengthens small hand muscles used for writing, buttoning, and using utensils.

3. Threading Beads or Pasta

Great for hand-eye coordination and fine motor control. Use string and large beads (or dry penne pasta for younger kids).

4. Wall Push-Ups or Chair Push-Ups

Provide deep pressure and muscle input to help with self-regulation and postural control.

5. Scavenger Hunts

Place objects around the room and give your child clues to find and collect them. This builds visual scanning and problem-solving skills.

6. Sensory Bins

Fill a bin with rice, beans, or sand. Hide small objects inside for your child to find using their hands or tweezers. Supports tactile exploration and concentration.

7. Balance Games

Walk on a line of tape or balance on one foot while playing a game. Improves proprioception and core strength.

8. Sticker Charts and Peg Boards

These activities help improve finger strength and coordination—great for kids with handwriting challenges.

9. Bubble Blowing

Simple but effective. Encourages controlled breathing, visual tracking, and oral motor skills.

10. Obstacle Courses

Use pillows, tunnels, or chairs to create a movement path. Helps with motor planning, spatial awareness, and following instructions.

All of these exercises can be adapted for your child’s age and ability level.

Who Can Benefit From Occupational Therapy?

These exercises are especially helpful for children who:

• Struggle with writing, dressing, or feeding themselves

• Have sensory sensitivities (e.g., to textures, sound, movement)

• Are on the autism spectrum

• Have ADHD or difficulty sitting still and focusing

• Show delays in motor development or coordination

• Need help building daily routines and independence

If you’re unsure whether your child needs occupational therapy, an assessment can provide clarity and a personalized plan.

How OrbRom Center Helps Children in Cambodia

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we offer professional occupational therapy services led by trained therapists. Our approach is child-centered and play-based, with services that include:

• Occupational therapy sessions (individual and group)

• Integrated support within our inclusive preschool and intervention programs

• Sensory integration therapy

• Parent coaching and home strategies

• Progress monitoring through individualized learning plans (ILPs)

Whether your child is developing slowly or has a specific diagnosis, we’ll work with your family to build skills that matter most—from self-care to school readiness.

Make Daily Tasks Easier and More Fun

Occupational therapy isn’t just clinical—it’s fun, engaging, and empowering. By using simple exercises, children can gain confidence in their bodies, master daily tasks, and thrive in school and life.

If you’re in Phnom Penh and looking for occupational therapy support for your child, OrbRom Center is here to guide you every step of the way.