Everyday routines — like packing a backpack, feeding a pet, or helping with laundry — help children build independence, confidence, and problem-solving abilities that prepare them for the future. In occupational therapy, these activities are called Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs).
My name is Jennifer Hatch, and I’m a pediatric occupational therapist at Fluens Children’s Therapy. In this article, I’ll explain how occupational therapy helps children develop and strengthen IADLs, especially when daily routines feel challenging due to developmental or sensory differences.
How Pediatric Occupational Therapy Supports Independence
As children grow, everyday responsibilities expand to include more complex life skills, from helping with chores to preparing simple meals or managing small routines.
For children with developmental delays or autism, independence might look a little bit different — and that’s where occupational therapists come in. We help children adapt to their environment, introduce strategies that make everyday routines easier, and provide lots of caregiver education so families can continue building those skills at home.
Occupational therapists use practical, hands-on strategies to make each task feel achievable.
Breaking Tasks into Smaller Steps
Large tasks like cleaning a room or packing for school can feel overwhelming. Therapists teach children how to break up these activities into smaller, manageable steps, such as picking up toys first, making the bed, and then putting clothes away.
Using Visual Supports and Checklists
Visual tools like chore charts, picture schedules, or written lists help children understand and remember what comes next. These supports make routines more predictable and easier to follow.
Building Consistent Routines
Consistency helps children master new skills. By practicing the same routines daily — like packing a backpack each morning or setting the table before dinner — children gain structure, independence, and confidence.
Encouraging Life Skills at Home
You can help your child practice independence through everyday tasks that match their age and abilities:
- Ages 5–7: Pick up toys, help pack lunch, put laundry in the hamper
- Ages 8–10: Make a sandwich, fold clothes, put laundry away
- Ages 11–13: Take out the trash, wash dishes, follow a simple chore chart
- Ages 14+: Help care for a pet or sibling, assist with grocery shopping, cook a simple meal
Start small by choosing one life skill each week to focus on. Over time, these small successes build lasting confidence.
Reach Out to Fluens Children’s Therapy for Help
If your child needs support with daily routines or building independence, call Fluens Children’s Therapy at (253) 212-3502 to schedule an appointment or request a free online or in-person 15-minute screening. You can also reach us through the contact page on our website.