Induction into Paediatric Occupational Therapy Practice

Transitioning into paediatric occupational therapy is an exciting career opportunity, but it also requires the development of specialised knowledge, clinical reasoning, and practical skills. Occupational therapists moving from adult services or other areas of practice often face a steep learning curve as they adapt to child development, family-centred practice, and the unique complexities of working with children and young people.

Cornerstone Occupational Therapy Services (COTS) offers a structured, competency-based Induction into Paediatric Occupational Therapy Practice Programme designed to support occupational therapists during this transition. The programme bridges the gap between previous clinical experience and the specialised competencies required for safe, effective, and evidence-based paediatric practice.

Delivered through a combination of education, mentorship, clinical observation, reflective practice, case discussions, and guided learning, the programme enables therapists to build confidence while developing the knowledge and practical skills needed to deliver high-quality paediatric occupational therapy services.

Programme components

Typical and atypical child development
Family-centred and strengths-based practice
Occupational therapy process within paediatric services
Clinical reasoning and decision-making
Assessment selection and interpretation
Standardised paediatric assessments
Goal setting and intervention planning
Sensory processing and sensory integration principles
Fine motor, gross motor, and functional skill development
Play assessment and therapeutic use of play
Activities of daily living and participation
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD/Dyspraxia)
Documentation, report writing, and clinical record keeping
Clinical governance, safeguarding, and professional standards
Multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary working
Communication with children, families, schools, and other professionals
Reflective practice and professional development

Who is this programme for?

Occupational therapists transitioning from adult services into paediatric practice
Newly qualified occupational therapists commencing work in paediatrics
Occupational therapists returning to paediatric practice after a career break
Occupational therapists seeking to refresh or expand their paediatric knowledge and clinical skills

Programme outcomes

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

Demonstrate increased confidence in paediatric clinical practice.
Apply evidence-based clinical reasoning to assessment and intervention.
Deliver family-centred occupational therapy services that promote meaningful participation.
Select and interpret appropriate assessment tools.
Develop individualised intervention plans based on children's strengths and goals.
Communicate effectively with families, schools, and multidisciplinary teams.
Produce high-quality clinical documentation and reports.
Practise safely, ethically, and confidently within paediatric services.

Our commitment

At COTS, we recognise that transitioning into paediatric occupational therapy is more than acquiring new knowledge—it is about developing confidence, competence, and professional identity. Through structured learning, mentorship, and ongoing support, we help occupational therapists build strong foundations for a successful and rewarding career in paediatric practice.