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What actually happens in an OT assessment

14 July 2026 · 6 min read

Child climbing on soft play equipment in a bright sensory gym

Booking an assessment can feel like a big step. Many families tell us they are not sure what will happen, how long it will take, or what they will walk away with. Here is what our process looks like from start to finish.

We start with a conversation. Before we look at any activity, we want to understand your child through your eyes. What does a good day look like? What does a hard morning look like? What have you already tried? Nothing is too small to mention, and there is no wrong answer.

Then we play. Most of our assessment happens through activities that look like fun, because that is how children show us their real skills. We watch how your child moves, grips a pencil, copies a shape, responds to sound and movement, follows instructions and manages frustration.

We take our time. Our assessments are deliberately deep. Rather than a quick screen and a score, we build a full picture across home, school and community. That can mean more than one session, and it often means a conversation with your child's teacher.

You get something you can use. At the end you receive a report written in plain language, plus practical next steps that fit your family's real life. If therapy is the right choice, we talk goals together. If it is not, we will tell you that too.

Want to talk it through?

General information is never a substitute for advice about your own child. If something here sounds familiar, get in touch and we will help you work out the next step.

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