Assessments / Advice & next steps
Preparing for an occupational therapy assessment
It is natural to be uncertain about the assessment process. Focus on the daily activities that are currently proving difficult; this simple starting point will help any professional understand your child's needs.
Quick answer
Prepare for an occupational therapy assessment by identifying the daily activities the child wants or needs to do more easily. Bring specific examples, relevant reports and information about the environments involved. The assessment should focus on function and participation, not a generic sensory checklist.
What this means
The therapist may discuss routines, observe tasks and assess motor, sensory, self-care or organisational factors relevant to the referral question. Explain communication, fatigue, pain or anxiety needs before the appointment. Ask whether assessment takes place in clinic, home or school and what cannot be concluded from that setting.
Occupational therapy is functional by nature. It focuses on how your child interacts with their environment. Having a clear idea of where the difficulties lie—whether it's motor skills, sensory processing, or self-care—helps you navigate the assessment route effectively.
Explore free routes initially. Many children receive OT input via NHS services or school-based pathways. Consult your Local Offer and the school SENCO to see what is already available and how to access these established support systems.
Questions to ask
Which functional activities are the priority? • Where will assessment take place and what are its limits? • What report, equipment advice and follow-up are included?
Local Northamptonshire route
NHS, school and private occupational therapy routes may differ. Check current access and the relevant North Northamptonshire or West Northamptonshire Local Offer. School should consider functional adjustments while assessment is pending.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
Private occupational therapy is optional. Check HCPC registration, relevant paediatric experience, full fees and whether equipment or school visits cost extra.
What happens next?
Agree which recommendations will be tried, by whom and for how long. Review changes in participation and independence rather than relying only on assessment scores.
Support that may help
School SENCO; SENDIASS; Occupational Therapists (HCPC registered); Educational Psychologists.
Related guidance
SEND Lantern provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.