Child development

Child development is the journey of how your child grows, learns, and builds skills in their early years. It includes physical development, such as movement and coordination, alongside communication, thinking, emotional wellbeing, and social skills. These areas are closely connected and together support your child’s overall health and wellbeing.

Every child develops at their own pace, and differences are a natural part of growing up. If you feel your child may need extra support, help and advice is available. You are not alone, and there are services ready to support you and your child to thrive.

Children's occupational therapy webinars

We offer free online webinars for parents and carers, providing practical advice and strategies to support children and young people at home.

Choose the webinar that best matches your child’s needs:

  • Making sense – for children with sensory sensitivities or difficulties affecting daily life: Book now.
  • Skills for independence – practical ways to help children with additional needs develop everyday skills. Book here: Book now.
  • Moving and doing – for children who experience difficulties with coordination or everyday tasks such as dressing and using cutlery: Book now.

What to expect:

  • Parent/carer-only sessions (children and young people should not attend)
  • Approximately 1 hour long delivered via Microsoft Teams
  • Opportunity to ask questions with an occupational therapist
  • Presentation slides shared after the session

If you feel your child may need additional support after attending a webinar, contact our OT Advice Line on 0300 247 0017 Wednesday, 9am–12pm and Thursday, 1pm–4pm.

For help with booking or joining a webinar, call 01562 514520.

  1. Advice on speech and language
  2. Best Start in Life
  3. Development of gross motor skills through play
  4. Developmental co-ordination disorder (dyspraxia)
  5. NHS Birth to Five guide