What is Outdoor Pediatric Occupational Therapy (OT)?

Outdoor OT takes therapy beyond the clinic walls and into nature. Children develop essential skills like balance, coordination, attention, and self-regulation through play, movement, and exploration in natural settings. The outdoor environment provides rich sensory input, opportunities for social interaction, and real-world challenges that can’t always be replicated indoors. At Pear Tree Kids OT, we use the power of nature to support children in building confidence, resilience, and the skills they need for everyday life.

Does my child need Occupational Therapy (OT)?

Occupational Therapy (OT) isn’t just for kids with a diagnosis. It’s for any child who could use support with any number of things such as:

• Emotional regulation

• Social skills and friendships

• Transitions and routines

• Sensory processing

• Fine and gross motor development

• Balance, coordination and confidence

Do I need a Doctor's referral?

No! Just curiosity, compassion and a willingness to explore.

Why outdoors based Occupational Therapy (OT)?

The outdoors allows children to build real life skills while exploring all the sensory wonders and studies have shown being in the outdoors can help calm your body (need citation).

What is the primitive reflex?

Primitive reflexes are automatic movements babies are born with that help them grow and develop. They serve as survival mechanisms in infants, supporting feeding, protection, and motor development. These reflexes typically emerge in utero or at birth and are expected to integrate as the central nervous system matures, allowing voluntary, higher-order motor control. If these reflexes don’t fully integrate, they can affect things like focus, coordination, and emotional regulation. At Pear Tree Kids OT, we check for retained reflexes to better understand your child’s needs and create a plan that supports their growth at home, school, and play.