Supporting Children with Autism Through Occupational Therapy in Phnom Penh

Children with autism often experience challenges that affect their ability to participate fully in everyday activities—from brushing their teeth to sitting in a classroom. Many struggle with sensory sensitivities, motor coordination, or emotional regulation. Occupational therapy (OT) is one of the most effective interventions to support these children in developing independence, confidence, and life skills.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our occupational therapists specialize in working with children on the autism spectrum. Through structured, individualized programs, we help children learn, grow, and thrive in a world that doesn’t always meet their needs.

Why Occupational Therapy for Autism?
Occupational therapy focuses on enabling children to participate in the tasks and routines that make up daily life—whether at home, in school, or in the community. For children with autism, OT helps address:

• Sensory processing challenges (e.g., sensitivity to sound, light, textures)

• Fine and gross motor delays (e.g., difficulty with dressing or using utensils)

• Social interaction and play skills

• Self-care routines (e.g., hygiene, feeding, toileting)

• Emotional regulation and transitions

Our OT programs at OrbRom Center are customized to meet each child’s unique sensory profile, strengths, and goals.

Key Areas of Focus in Autism Occupational Therapy

1. Sensory Integration
   Children with autism may overreact or underreact to sensory input. OT uses sensory integration techniques to help the nervous system process input more effectively. Activities include:

• Swinging, jumping, and deep pressure play

• Tactile bins for safe texture exploration

• Calming tools like weighted items and sound machines

2. Fine and Gross Motor Skills
   Many children with autism have difficulty with body coordination. OT helps them:

• Improve handwriting and pencil grip

• Build core strength for posture and sitting

• Develop balance and spatial awareness

3. Self-Help and Routine Skills
   We break down daily tasks like brushing teeth, dressing, or using utensils into small, manageable steps using:

• Visual schedules

• Hand-over-hand practice

• Consistent routines

4. Emotional Regulation and Behavior
   We teach children how to identify their emotions and respond in appropriate ways. Tools include:

• Calming strategies

• Visual cue cards

• Safe spaces for sensory breaks

Tools and Products That Support Autism OT
At OrbRom Center, we integrate sensory tools into therapy and recommend items from our Sensory Shop for home use, such as:

• Sensory Peapod: Provides deep pressure that helps children with autism feel calm and secure

• Noise Cancelling Headphones: Reduces overwhelm in noisy environments like school

• Weighted Sensory Blanket: Supports better sleep and self-regulation

• Sleep Sound Machine: Soothes children to sleep with gentle background sounds

These tools are integrated into OT sessions and available to families for home carryover.

How We Work with Families and Schools
Children with autism need consistent support across environments. At OrbRom, we:

• Conduct in-depth Developmental Assessments to create individualized goals

• Provide parent coaching to support skill-building at home

• Collaborate with teachers to create sensory-friendly classrooms

• Offer classroom observation and recommendations for accommodations

This teamwork ensures that your child receives consistent and meaningful support wherever they go.

Why Choose OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh
OrbRom Center is a trusted leader in autism therapy services in Cambodia. Families choose us because we offer:

• Experienced occupational therapists trained in autism intervention

• Khmer and English-speaking professionals

• Sensory-integrated therapy spaces

• Access to our full Sensory Shop

• Collaborative care with speech therapists, behavior specialists, and educators

We don’t just treat behaviors—we build abilities, confidence, and meaningful progress.

Conclusion: Supporting Every Step of the Autism Journey
Children with autism can live joyful, independent lives—but they need the right support. Occupational therapy provides the structure, tools, and strategies they need to manage sensory input, build life skills, and connect with their world.

If your child is on the autism spectrum and facing daily challenges, contact OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh. Our Occupational Therapy Services are here to help your child take the next step forward—with care, creativity, and confidence.