Occupational Therapy Phnom Penh: School Readiness Skills for Children

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our occupational therapy programs help children develop school readiness skills — the essential abilities that prepare them to thrive in the classroom. From holding a pencil correctly to following instructions and participating in group activities, we focus on making the transition to school smooth and successful for every child.

Why School Readiness Matters

Being “ready for school” isn’t just about knowing letters and numbers. It also includes:

• Fine motor skills – holding a pencil, cutting with scissors, coloring inside lines

• Gross motor skills – sitting upright at a desk, moving confidently in play areas

• Sensory processing – coping with sounds, textures, and movement in the school environment

• Self-care skills – opening lunch boxes, using the toilet independently

• Social participation – following rules, taking turns, and working with others

Children who start school with strong foundational skills are more confident, engaged, and ready to learn.

Signs a Child May Need School Readiness Support

Consider an occupational therapy assessment if your child:

• Struggles to hold a pencil or use scissors

• Has trouble sitting still or focusing during tasks

• Avoids group play or following structured routines

• Reacts strongly to classroom noise or activity

• Has difficulty dressing or managing belongings independently

What School Readiness OT Looks Like at OrbRom

Our sessions use engaging, child-friendly activities to develop both learning and life skills. Examples include:

• Pre-writing exercises – tracing, drawing shapes, and strengthening hand muscles

• Coordination games – hopping, balancing, and throwing to improve motor control

• Sensory play – helping children adapt to classroom textures and sounds

• Role-play activities – practicing lining up, raising hands, and asking for help

• Self-care practice – managing lunch boxes, zippers, and shoe fastenings

These activities prepare children not only for academic learning but also for navigating the daily routines of school life.

Specialized Support for Autism, ADHD, and Developmental Needs

Children with developmental differences often face unique challenges when starting school. At OrbRom, we:

• Create individualized plans for gradual skill building

• Work on attention, impulse control, and transitions

• Collaborate with our speech therapy team to support communication skills

• Help parents and teachers create consistent strategies between home and school

The Role of Parents in School Readiness

Parents play a key role by:

• Practicing fine motor activities at home

• Encouraging children to follow daily routines

• Supporting early social skills through playdates

• Visiting school environments before the first day to reduce anxiety

What Progress Looks Like

With consistent therapy, children often:

• Write and draw with more control

• Participate confidently in group activities

• Follow instructions with fewer reminders

• Transition more smoothly between tasks

• Show greater independence in managing personal belongings

Prepare Your Child for a Confident Start to School

If your child is preparing to enter school in Phnom Penh and could use extra support, OrbRom Center offers targeted occupational therapy to make the transition easier.

👉 Book your occupational therapy session today.