OT vs physio for children: which does my child need?

Understanding the difference

Occupational therapists work on your child's ability to participate in daily life. This includes fine motor skills (using fingers and hands for writing, eating, fastening buttons), self-care routines (toileting, showering, dressing), play skills, sensory processing (how your child responds to touch, sound, movement), and school readiness tasks like sitting at a desk or managing a pencil.

Physiotherapists focus on gross motor development—the larger movements your child makes. This includes rolling, sitting, crawling, walking, running, jumping, balance, coordination, strength and posture. They also address gait (walking pattern) and help children recover movement after injury.

How to know what your child needs

Start by talking to your GP or paediatrician about your concerns. They can refer you to the appropriate therapist or both. Consider OT if your child has difficulty with: - Writing, drawing or using cutlery - Dressing, toileting or personal hygiene - Playing with toys or interacting with peers - Responding to textures, sounds or movement - Sitting still or focusing at school

Consider physiotherapy if your child has difficulty with: - Walking, running or climbing - Balance or coordination - Strength or endurance - Recovering from injury or surgery

Accessing therapy in Australia

If your child is eligible for the NDIS, both OT and physiotherapy are funded supports. Under the 2025-26 NDIS Pricing Arrangements, individual therapy sessions typically range from $150–$250 depending on your state and therapist qualifications. Without NDIS, you can access therapy through Medicare via a GP referral (up to 10 allied health sessions per year with a chronic disease management plan), or privately (typically $80–$180 per session). Some community health services offer subsidised therapy.

Therapists are registered with AHPRA (Occupational Therapists Australia and Physiotherapy Australia maintain professional standards). Many children benefit from both therapies simultaneously—your GP or paediatrician can help coordinate this.

Next steps: Ask your GP for a referral, describe your specific concerns about daily activities or movement, and the therapist will assess whether they're the right fit for your child.