What Is Occupational Therapy? Supporting Children’s Development in Phnom Penh

Many parents in Phnom Penh are surprised to learn that occupational therapy (OT) isn’t just for adults recovering from injury. In fact, it’s one of the most effective therapies for children with developmental delays, sensory issues, coordination problems, or challenges in everyday skills like dressing, writing, or playing.

At OrbRom Center, we provide specialized occupational therapy for children in Phnom Penh—helping kids gain independence, confidence, and the ability to fully participate in school, home, and social life.

What Does Pediatric Occupational Therapy Address?

Children don’t have jobs in the traditional sense—but their “occupation” is to grow, play, learn, and become independent. Occupational therapy helps children build the skills needed to do exactly that.

Our therapists focus on:

• Fine motor skills (e.g., holding a pencil, using scissors, buttoning clothes)

• Gross motor coordination (e.g., balance, jumping, posture)

• Sensory processing (e.g., reacting to sound, touch, or movement)

• Daily living tasks (e.g., feeding, grooming, dressing)

• Emotional regulation (e.g., calming down, transitioning between tasks)

Many of our clients have diagnoses like autism, ADHD, developmental delay, or learning disorders—but OT also helps children without formal diagnoses who simply struggle with motor or sensory tasks.

Also explore: What Is Occupational Therapy?

Signs Your Child May Need Occupational Therapy

Some developmental challenges are easy to see. Others are more subtle, like difficulty sitting still or holding a fork correctly. Common signs that OT can help include:

• Delayed milestones (walking, dressing, feeding)

• Poor balance or coordination

• Avoiding certain textures, sounds, or messy play

• Fatigue during writing, drawing, or using tools

• Meltdowns during transitions or group activities

• Inability to follow multi-step instructions

Children who seem “clumsy,” “overactive,” or “overly sensitive” may benefit from a sensory-motor evaluation. Learn more about sensory room benefits

How Occupational Therapy Works at OrbRom Center

Our licensed occupational therapists begin with a full evaluation to understand the child’s needs. Therapy sessions are:

• One-on-one and individualized

• Play-based to keep the child engaged

• Focused on goals that matter to families (e.g., writing, dressing, classroom participation)

• Often include sensory integration techniques to help with regulation

We use specialized equipment such as:

• Balance boards, swings, and climbing walls for core strength

• Shape puzzles and scissors for fine motor development

• Visual schedules and calming strategies to improve attention and transitions

Our therapists also work closely with speech therapists, teachers, and parents to ensure skills generalize across environments.

Explore the combined benefits of speech and occupational therapy

Why Occupational Therapy Is Important

Children who can’t regulate their sensory input, coordinate their bodies, or manage daily routines often struggle in school and social settings. OT gives them the tools to:

• Participate fully in classroom activities

• Develop handwriting and self-care skills

• Manage emotions and focus better

• Feel more confident in their bodies

It’s not about “fixing” children—it’s about giving them the support they need to thrive.

Read how OT improves executive function in children with ADHD

Why Families in Phnom Penh Trust OrbRom Center

OrbRom Center is one of the only providers in Cambodia offering individualized pediatric OT in a structured, sensory-aware environment. We offer:

• Trained occupational therapists experienced with neurodiverse children

• Khmer-English bilingual therapy

• Flexible scheduling and progress tracking

• Coordination with our speech therapy team

• Full developmental assessments to identify all areas of support

Whether your child needs help with handwriting, attention, or emotional control, we’re here to help them reach their full potential.

Final Thoughts: Building Independence, One Step at a Time

Occupational therapy gives children the foundational skills they need for school, home, and life. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we believe that with the right support, every child can learn, grow, and succeed. If you notice delays or challenges in your child’s development, don’t wait—early intervention makes all the difference.

Learn more about occupational therapy services at OrbRom Center