Play-based therapy techniques are highly effective in pediatric therapy because they make learning fun and engaging while targeting specific developmental skills.
Speech Therapy
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Pretend Play – Use dolls, action figures, or farm animals to encourage storytelling, sequencing, and expressive language.
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Hide-and-Seek Objects – Hide small toys and encourage the child to describe where they are using prepositions (e.g., "under the table").
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Turn-Taking Games – Board games or rolling a ball back and forth can promote communication, patience, and social skills.
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Sound Scavenger Hunt – Find objects around the room that start with a target sound or letter.
Occupational Therapy
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Obstacle Courses – Incorporate crawling, jumping, and balancing to develop motor planning and coordination.
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Sensory Bins – Use rice, beans, or sand with hidden objects to improve tactile processing and fine motor skills.
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Playdough Activities – Rolling, pinching, and cutting playdough strengthens hand muscles for writing and daily tasks.
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Dressing Up – Fastening buttons, zipping coats, and putting on costumes improve self-care and motor skills.
Physical Therapy
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Animal Walks – Imitating movements like a crab, bear, or frog jump helps with strength and coordination.
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Balloon Volleyball – Keeping a balloon in the air builds core strength, coordination, and balance.
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Simon Says – Encourages body awareness, following directions, and motor planning.
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Balance Beam Games – Walking on a taped line or a low beam improves balance and postural control.