Building Communication and Coordination Through Play: How Therapy Extends Beyond the Classroom

Children learn best through play—and that includes therapy. Activities like team games and outdoor sports can be powerful tools for developing both communication and motor skills. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we use play-based approaches in both speech therapy and occupational therapy to help children develop essential life skills in a fun, engaging way.

Games like petanque or other group activities aren’t just recreational—they’re also therapeutic. These moments support speech, coordination, problem-solving, and social interaction, all while building confidence.

The Speech Therapy Side of Play

When children play together, they naturally practice communication. During speech therapy, we use group games to work on:

• Turn-taking in conversations

• Giving and following directions

• Using descriptive language

• Social pragmatics (e.g., greetings, responding to peers)

• Problem-solving and asking for help

Whether children are describing how to play or reacting to a win or loss, these scenarios help develop real-world communication skills in context.

Explore more about our services here: Speech Therapy Services

The Occupational Therapy Benefits

Occupational therapy focuses on helping children develop coordination, body awareness, and control. Activities like throwing, catching, and balancing during games are excellent for:

• Gross motor coordination

• Hand-eye coordination

• Sensory integration (processing sounds, movements, textures)

• Core strength and posture

• Emotional regulation during group settings

Outdoor group play provides a natural setting for children to practice the physical and sensory skills they learn in therapy.

More information is available here: Occupational Therapy Services