Starting school is a big step for every child—and for parents in Irvine and across Orange County, preparing little ones for that transition can feel both exciting and overwhelming. From learning how to hold a pencil to staying focused in class, every child develops at their own pace. That’s where pediatric occupational therapy can make all the difference.
At Centerpointe for Children, our therapists specialize in helping children build the foundational motor, sensory, and self-regulation skills they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Why School-Readiness Matters
“School readiness” goes far beyond knowing letters or numbers—it’s about helping children feel confident and capable in daily routines. Occupational therapy (OT) helps children strengthen the skills needed for:
- Fine motor tasks like cutting, coloring, and writing
- Gross motor coordination for playground play and PE
- Self-care skills such as dressing, feeding, and managing backpacks
- Emotional regulation and attention for classroom learning
By addressing these developmental areas early, children can enter school ready to learn, engage, and thrive.
How Occupational Therapy Helps
At Centerpointe for Children, we use evidence-based, play-driven approaches to build the core skills children need. Each session is customized to your child’s strengths and challenges, and may include:
- Sensory integration activities to improve focus and calm
- Fine motor exercises for better hand strength and dexterity
- Self-regulation tools for managing big emotions
- Task simulations for classroom and home routines
We also work closely with parents and caregivers to create simple strategies that can be used at home and school for consistent progress.
Serving Families Across Irvine & Orange County
Our clinic is centrally located in Irvine, making it easy for families across Orange County to access therapy in a welcoming, child-centered environment. We pride ourselves on providing a neurodivergent-affirming, compassionate approach that celebrates every child’s unique abilities.
Ready to Help Your Child Start Strong?
If your child is preparing for preschool, kindergarten, or early elementary school, now is the perfect time to support their readiness skills.
Contact Centerpointe for Children today to schedule an evaluation or a free 15-minute consultation. Let’s build confidence, independence, and a love for learning—together.