A Balancing Act
Imagine this: It’s a busy weekend at Gardens by the Bay. Your child, usually full of energy and smiles, is now having a meltdown, refusing to leave the playground. Or perhaps it’s dinner at a crowded hawker centre, and a tantrum erupts over a plate of perfectly good chicken rice. Many parents in Singapore can relate to these scenarios. We’re juggling demanding careers, the pressure of academic success, and the fast-paced environment that defines our city. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Sometimes, a child’s challenging behaviour isn’t simply defiance. Sometimes, they’re communicating an unmet need. Occupational Therapy (OT) can help us understand those needs.
“Is it just a phase, or is there more to it?”
Every child develops at their own pace. But how do we know when a behaviour is typical and when it might require professional attention? It’s a question many Singaporean parents grapple with. Common concerns include tantrums over toys, picky eating habits, difficulty with transitions (from playtime to homework, from home to school), and social struggles in our diverse community.
It’s important to remember that every child is unique, and some developmental variations are perfectly normal. However, if you notice several of these signs consistently, it might be worth considering an occupational therapy (OT) evaluation. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate a child could benefit from OT:
Challenges with Daily Living Skills:
● Difficulty with self-care tasks: Struggling with dressing, bathing, toileting, or feeding themselves (e.g., trouble with buttons, zippers, using utensils).
● Poor fine motor skills: Difficulty with tasks that require precise hand movements, such as handwriting, drawing, using scissors, or manipulating small objects.
● Gross motor coordination issues: Clumsiness, frequent falls, difficulty with balance, or trouble with activities like running, jumping, or climbing.
Sensory Processing Difficulties:
● Over-sensitivity: Reacting strongly to certain sensory input (sounds, touch, smells, tastes, movement) that most children tolerate. This might manifest as distress in noisy environments, aversion to certain textures, or resistance to being touched.
● Under-sensitivity: Seeming unaware of or less responsive to sensory input, such as not noticing when their name is called or having a high pain tolerance.
● Sensory-seeking behaviors: Constantly seeking out intense sensory experiences, such as excessive spinning, crashing into things, or touching everything.
Behavioral and Social Challenges:
● Difficulty regulating emotions: Frequent or intense tantrums, difficulty calming down when upset, or overreacting to minor frustrations.
● Social interaction difficulties: Challenges with making friends, understanding social cues, or engaging in age-appropriate play with peers.
● Attention and focus problems: Difficulty concentrating, easily distracted, trouble following instructions, or struggling to complete tasks.
Academic Difficulties:
● Handwriting challenges: Messy or illegible handwriting, difficulty with letter formation, or trouble with spacing and sizing letters.
● Visual-perceptual problems: Difficulty with tasks that require interpreting visual information, such as copying from the board, solving puzzles, or understanding spatial relationships.
Rather than focusing on labels like “behaviour problems,” let’s consider the impact these challenges have on the entire family. Stress levels rise, frustration builds, school can become a source of anxiety (especially with the emphasis on academic achievement), and even relationships with extended family can be strained. Understanding the why behind a behaviour, not just the what, is crucial. And that’s where OT can make a real difference.
How OT Can Be a Game-Changer
Instead of delving into technical terms, let me share some examples. A friend’s child struggled with handwriting. It wasn’t laziness; it was a sensory processing issue. Occupational therapy provided the support they needed, and now they’re thriving. Consider a child who is constantly overwhelmed by the noise and bright lights of a busy MRT station. It’s no wonder they might have difficulty focusing.
OT helps us understand these sensory experiences and how they impact a child’s behaviour. Think of it this way: some children’s brains process information quickly and intensely, while others require a gentler, more measured approach. OT helps them find the right balance. Instead of simply telling a child to “calm down” after a meltdown, an OT might recommend a quiet space with sensory tools or a weighted vest. Occupational therapy takes a holistic approach, considering the child’s sensory system, physical abilities, emotional well-being, their environment, and family dynamics.
“Where do I even start?”
At Cornerstone, we understand the unique challenges faced by families in Singapore. We offer comprehensive assessments to identify the underlying causes of your child’s difficulties. Our experienced therapists provide individualized therapy sessions designed to meet your child’s specific needs.
The ROM Theory is the cornerstone of our therapy because we prioritise ensuring that your child is regulated, organised and motivated during therapy. This ensures that the child will be actively engaged in the activities specially designed for them. This active engagement is how we achieve meaningful progress in speech, communication, and social skills, whether it’s through occupational therapy, educational therapy or other therapeutic forms.
Our team includes therapists who are proficient in multiple languages. In addition to professional support, there are things you can do at home.
Let’s Talk
Parenting in Singapore can be demanding, but you’re not alone. We understand the pressures, the anxieties, and the moments of overwhelm. With the right support, things can improve. We’re here to help you navigate these challenges and empower your child to reach their full potential.
Observe your child’s behaviour in various settings – on the playground, at school, during meals. Keep a journal to track triggers and reactions. Communicate regularly with their teachers. And most importantly, trust your instincts. If you have concerns, seeking professional advice is always a good idea. Early intervention can make a significant difference.