Building Focus and Executive Functioning Through Occupational Therapy in Phnom Penh

Children are naturally curious, but maintaining focus and organizing their thoughts doesn’t always come easily—especially for those with attention difficulties, autism, or learning differences. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our occupational therapy sessions help children develop essential executive functioning skills like attention, planning, memory, and impulse control—all through engaging, play-based activities.

What Are Executive Functioning Skills?

Executive functioning refers to the mental skills that help us plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks. These skills are crucial for success in both academic and everyday life. Key executive functions include:

• Working memory – remembering and using information

• Cognitive flexibility – shifting focus and adapting to change

• Inhibitory control – resisting distractions or impulsive actions

• Organization and planning – breaking down tasks and setting goals

For children with ADHD or developmental delays, these areas can present ongoing challenges. That’s where occupational therapy plays a transformative role.

Occupational Therapy That Builds Thinking Skills

In the image above, a child demonstrates focus and fine motor coordination while carefully examining two test tubes—an activity that involves not only concentration but also planning and sensory regulation. At OrbRom, we use similar hands-on, interactive tasks to help children:

• Develop sustained attention

• Follow multi-step directions

• Solve problems independently

• Organize actions to reach a goal

Whether we’re building with blocks, managing a science activity, or playing a sequencing game, our therapists are targeting these invisible yet powerful cognitive skills.

Why It Matters in Phnom Penh Classrooms and Homes

In Phnom Penh’s increasingly competitive school environment, children are expected to follow complex routines, stay seated for long periods, and manage multiple demands. Without solid executive functioning, this becomes overwhelming—leading to frustration, behavior issues, and academic setbacks.

Occupational therapy helps bridge that gap. At OrbRom Center, we work closely with families and schools to ensure children build the focus and self-regulation needed to thrive across environments.

Practical Strategies for Parents

Here are some ways we help parents support executive functioning at home:

• Use visual schedules and checklists

• Break down tasks into small, manageable steps

• Build in short movement breaks

• Practice sequencing through everyday routines (e.g., brushing teeth, packing a bag)

• Encourage games that build memory, attention, and planning

Therapy is most effective when reinforced at home. That’s why we offer parent coaching as part of our occupational therapy services.

Conclusion

Focus and executive functioning can be taught—and when they are, children begin to thrive. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we use occupational therapy to build these essential skills through play, structure, and individualized attention. Every step a child takes toward better focus is a step toward greater independence and success.

Learn more about our occupational therapy programs and how they can support your child’s cognitive development in meaningful, joyful ways.