Develop Occupational Therapy Services

I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all the children and families I’ve had the privilege of supporting this year. This also marks two years of Develop OT, and I’m incredibly grateful for the trust and support you’ve shown. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone again in 2026. ✨�
Wishing you all a safe, happy, and restful break.
Maddi | Develop Occupational Therapy Services 🌻

🌟 Our Services 🌟

🌟 Our Areas of Expertise 🌟

At Develop, we help children develop the skills they need to feel confident, independent, and connected. Read the post below to see our full focus areas! 🌻

🧠 Autistic masking is a survival strategy many children use to fit in, especially in structured environments like school. It can be exhausting and often leads to emotional overload once they’re in a safe space at home.
💡 Occupational Therapists play a key role in supporting children to feel safe, understood, and authentically themselves — both at school and beyond.

Today and every day, we celebrate the unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences of autistic individuals and their families. At Develop, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive space where everyone can thrive. By embracing neurodiversity and advocating for inclusivity, we take meaningful steps toward a world that values and respects every individual. 🌻✨

I Need More, I Need Less has been getting a great workout in my therapy sessions recently! Written by an Occupational Therapist, this book includes fun examples of how everyone processes sensory information differently, and highlights that we all need different input to help our bodies feel their best. ✨

To put this into practice, many clients have enjoyed trying a range of sensory products to identify their preferences when it comes to touch, smell, sound, sight and taste! 🖐️ 👃 👂 👀 👅

Self-regulation is a developmental process that takes time. Just like a child can't run before walking, they can't regulate without consistent modelling and co-regulation experiences.

Co-regulation starts from birth, where we help babies and toddlers settle by offering comfort. It continues when we help them take deep breaths after their sibling took their favourite toy. Self-regulation begins to emerge around 4 years old for some, however this is not the case for everyone — both outcomes are normal. True self-regulation isn't fully established until our mid-twenties!

Co-regulation comes first, and while we can't always be there to co-regulate, it's important to recognise that children may not be able to do it alone yet. 🌻

A reminder of closure dates for the upcoming holiday period ✨

Some disabilities are hidden and not immediately obvious. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower raises awareness and helps those who may need extra help, time, or understanding in public spaces. By wearing the Sunflower, it can be easier for those around you to offer support 🌻

👉Get yours here: https://shorturl.at/solrC

🌻 It’s International Invisible Disabilities Week!

This week—and every week—we honour the diverse hidden disabilities that many navigate daily, from chronic illnesses to neurological conditions and beyond. Just as these conditions vary, so do your individual access needs and the challenges you encounter.

By wearing the Sunflower, you can be discreetly seen in shops, workplaces, on transport, and public spaces. Making it easier for those around you to offer support when you need it. 🌻

Happy OT week to all the brilliant OT's out there 🎉 For more information on everything OT's can help you achieve, visit our website: www.developots.com.au 🌼

✨ Ever wondered some of the benefits of private practice for therapy? ✨
🌼 Increased time to allow for planning to provide individualised support tailored to your child's unique needs.
🌼 Flexibility in scheduling, location, duration and frequency to fits your family's routine.
🌼 Opportunity for family involvement and the ability to work with the same therapist who can take the time to build rapport with your child to better understand their needs.
With that said, great therapists can be found anywhere; the most important thing is finding a provider who truly understands your child and fosters a supportive environment for them to develop and reach their goals!