Developmental Milestones
At what age does a child typically sit without support?
6 months
What does the ATNR reflex look like?
Head turns to one side; arm/leg on that side extend, opposite side flexes
Name two sensory systems that impact balance.
Vestibular and proprioceptive
What play stage involves using imagination?
Symbolic or pretend play
What is a hallmark of Down syndrome that affects OT intervention?
Low muscle tone and joint hypermobility
Name two fine motor skills developed by age 3.
Builds a 9-block tower, copies a circle
What happens if the Moro reflex persists?
Poor impulse control, sensory overload, startle responses
What does sensory modulation disorder mean?
Difficulty regulating sensory input; may over- or under-respond
How does cooperative play differ from associative play?
Cooperative play involves shared goals/rules; associative play is side-by-side with limited interaction
What are two major challenges in ASD affecting occupation?
Social communication deficits, sensory sensitivities
What gross motor skill emerges around age 5?
Skipping
Which treatment approach emphasizes alignment and postural control?
Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT)
What activity targets proprioceptive input?
Pushing/pulling heavy objects, animal walks
Give one OT intervention for improving social participation.
Role-play or turn-taking games
In cerebral palsy, what is the difference between spastic and athetoid types?
Spastic = increased tone; athetoid = fluctuating tone/involuntary movement
Which reflex must integrate before voluntary grasp develops?
Palmar grasp reflex
What is motor learning theory focused on?
Repetition, feedback, and task practice to improve performance
What is a “just-right challenge”?
An activity matched to the child’s skill level for success and growth
Which performance skills are most supported through play?
Motor, process, and social interaction skills
What OT approach is used to improve coordination in DCD?
Task-oriented training and environmental adaptation
What is the OTA’s role in evaluation?
Contribute to data collection under OT supervision
Name two preparatory methods for pediatric OT sessions.
Weight-bearing, swinging, joint compression
What theory emphasizes volition, habituation, and performance capacity?
Model of Human Occupation (MOHO)
What makes an intervention “family-centered”?
It incorporates family goals, routines, and participation in planning
What is one activity that provides proprioceptive input to help calm a child with sensory processing difficulties?
Pushing or pulling heavy objects, like moving chairs or carrying books.