Why I’m Focusing on Coaching: Empowering Parents Through Occupational Therapy

Over the past 17 years as a pediatric occupational therapist, I’ve worked in schools, clinics, and homes—supporting children with diverse developmental needs. No matter the setting, one truth has remained clear: parents are the most powerful agents of change in a child’s life.

That’s why, in recent years, I’ve shifted the heart of my practice toward a coaching-based model—focusing on equipping parents and caregivers with the tools and confidence to support their child’s growth every day, in natural routines and environments. Instead of just working “on” a child in isolation, coaching allows me to partner with families and help them integrate meaningful strategies into daily life.

What Is OT Coaching?

Coaching in occupational therapy is not about giving homework or simply explaining techniques—it’s a collaborative process. I work alongside parents to understand their child’s needs, build on family strengths, and tailor strategies that make sense in real time: during mealtimes, bath time, getting dressed, or transitions at school drop-off.

Whether we’re working on sensory regulation, fine motor skills, attention, or play, coaching allows for ongoing dialogue, reflection, and practice. It respects the parent’s expertise and nurtures the caregiver-child relationship in the process.

Why Coaching Works—Especially with Young Children

Here are some of the biggest benefits I’ve seen when using a coaching approach in early childhood OT:

• Greater carryover: When parents learn the “why” and “how” behind a strategy, they’re more likely to use it confidently in real situations—leading to faster and more sustainable progress.

• Development happens during real life: Young children learn best through repetition and natural routines. Coaching allows interventions to be embedded in moments that matter.

• Empowerment over dependency: Instead of needing a therapist present for every breakthrough, parents gain lasting skills they can adapt as their child grows.

• Cultural and family fit: Coaching honors each family’s unique routines, values, and environment. What works for one family might not fit another—and that’s okay. Coaching helps us discover what works for you.

• Emotional connection and confidence: For many parents, raising a child with developmental challenges can feel overwhelming or isolating. Coaching creates space for support, reflection, and reassurance—which is just as important as skill-building.

  
  

What My Coaching Sessions Look Like

• Virtual and flexible: Sessions are scheduled to fit your routine, and we can meet from anywhere in the world.

• Personalized: We set goals together based on what’s most important to you and your child.

• Interactive: We talk, reflect, troubleshoot, and even practice strategies together—no judgment, just partnership.

• Supportive between sessions: I provide visuals, resources, video models, and ongoing check-ins to keep momentum going.

A Final Thought

As a mom and a therapist, I know that parenting can be both beautiful and messy. My goal with coaching is not perfection—but progress that feels possible. If you're looking for a way to support your child's development that’s rooted in compassion, practicality, and partnership, OT coaching might be the perfect fit.

You don’t have to do this alone—and with the right tools and support, you don’t have to wait for change to begin.

Interested in learning more about OT coaching for your child?

Feel free to reach out 📧 tarapedot@gmail.com | 🌐 www.tarapedot.com | 📱 WhatsApp: +34 633 180 285