Advocacy for Occupational Therapy

What is occupational therapy?

The definition of occupational therapy according to Webster is:

Therapy based on engagement in meaningful activities of daily life (such as self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction), especially to enable or encourage participation in such activities despite impairments or limitations in physical or mental functioning.



Occupational therapy can be so many things depending on where the services are being provided. While Webster's definition is thorough, our main priorities are: ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING and INDEPENDENCE.  The examples above: self-care, education, work and social interactions are things we evaluate. We determine how a disability impacts a child’s ability to participate in everyday activities. When working with children in Guatemala, we use play, games and activities to strengthen their abilities to complete different steps of activities. Therefore, slowly but surely, they develop INDEPENDENCE in their ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING. 

​For example, we can use a simple puzzle to help the child work on their hand coordination, problem solving, communication, core balance when sitting, ability to follow directions and so much more! These aspects of the puzzle activity are important in normal development and are things we get the privilege to teach our kiddos. Clear as mud?!?! :)

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Why would YOU care about the definition of occupational therapy?

Well, GOT Ministries is using occupational therapy services to serve the children with special needs and the community of Santa Maria de Jesus.  We desire to spread the love of our Lord Jesus to our kiddos and the community we serve with therapy services, to assist them in achieving independence. 

We want our supporters to know how their support of finances, prayers, and encouragement directly impact the community they serve through GOT Ministries.  Our partners and supporters are a huge part of our therapy services and are serving the community of Santa Maria de Jesus alongside us through their contributions.

​YOU are helping the children we serve to develop life skills in daily living, as well as educating the community of Santa Maria on the value of our beautiful loved ones with special needs.  Together we can make an impact and a difference in the lives of those we serve through independence, self-esteem, positive social interactions and success in school. Therefore, their futures are opened to so many more possibilities!

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