This is the most comprehensive guide to occupational therapy in Malta for parents. Whether your child has been referred for an assessment, or you are just starting to explore whether OT could help, this page will answer your questions.
What Is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) helps people of all ages participate in the activities that matter most to them. For children, these “occupations” include playing, learning, self-care, and socialising.
A paediatric occupational therapist works with children who have difficulty with everyday tasks due to developmental delays, sensory processing challenges, physical disabilities, or neurological conditions. The goal is to help each child reach their full potential and participate meaningfully in daily life.
Learn more in our detailed article: What Is Occupational Therapy? A Complete Guide for Parents in Malta
Who Needs Occupational Therapy?
Children may benefit from OT if they have difficulty with:
- Fine motor skills — holding a pencil, using scissors, buttoning clothes. See: Fine Motor Skills in Children
- Gross motor skills — balance, coordination, climbing, ball skills. See: Gross Motor Skills Development
- Sensory processing — over-reacting or under-reacting to sounds, textures, movement. See: Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder
- Handwriting — letter formation, pencil grip, writing speed. See: Pencil Grip Development
- Self-care — dressing, feeding, toileting independently. See: Teaching Self-Care Skills
- Attention and focus — staying on task, following instructions, organising. See: Attention and Focus: OT Strategies
- Social skills — taking turns, sharing, reading social cues. See: Building Social Skills Through OT
- Emotional regulation — managing frustration, anxiety, meltdowns. See: Emotional Regulation: OT Strategies
Not sure if your child needs OT? Read 10 Signs Your Child May Need Occupational Therapy.
Conditions We Work With
Occupational therapists in Malta work with children who have a wide range of diagnoses and developmental concerns:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) — How OT Helps Children with Autism in Malta
- ADHD — ADHD and Occupational Therapy
- Sensory Processing Disorder — Understanding SPD in Children
- Dyspraxia / DCD — Dyspraxia in Children
- Down Syndrome — OT for Down Syndrome in Malta
- Global Developmental Delay
- Cerebral Palsy
- Learning Difficulties
- Genetic and chromosomal conditions
What to Expect from an OT Assessment
An occupational therapy assessment is the first step. It gives us a clear picture of your child’s strengths and areas of difficulty.
During the assessment, the therapist will:
- Talk with you about your child’s history and your concerns
- Observe your child during play and structured activities
- Use standardised assessment tools to measure specific skills
- Assess sensory processing, motor skills, visual perception, and daily living skills
After the assessment, you will receive a written report with findings, recommendations, and therapy goals. Read the full guide: What Happens During an OT Assessment
Sensory Integration Therapy
Sensory integration (SI) therapy is a specialised form of occupational therapy. It helps children who have difficulty processing and responding to sensory information from their environment.
SI therapy takes place in a specially equipped room with swings, climbing equipment, tactile materials, and other sensory tools. The therapist guides the child through activities that challenge their sensory systems in a safe, playful way.
Learn more: Sensory Integration Therapy in Malta
Public vs Private OT in Malta
Malta offers both public and private occupational therapy services.
Public Services
Public OT is available through Mater Dei Hospital, the Child Development Assessment Unit (CDAU), and community outpatient clinics. You will need a referral from your GP or paediatrician. Waiting times can be long.
Private Services
Private OT clinics in Malta offer shorter waiting times and more flexible scheduling. No referral is needed. At WonderKids, we offer individualised assessment and therapy in fully equipped sensory integration rooms.
Full comparison: Public vs Private OT in Malta
How to Choose an Occupational Therapist in Malta
When choosing an OT for your child, consider:
- Qualifications — Look for a BSc in Occupational Therapy and registration with the Council for the Professions Complementary to Medicine
- Specialisation — For sensory issues, look for postgraduate training in Sensory Integration
- Experience — Ask about experience with your child’s specific condition
- Clinic facilities — Sensory integration therapy requires specialised equipment
- Family involvement — A good therapist involves parents in the process
Read more: How to Choose an Occupational Therapist in Malta
About Ema Bartolo
Ema Bartolo is a paediatric occupational therapist and advanced sensory integration practitioner with over 15 years of experience. She holds a BSc in Occupational Therapy from the University of Malta and an MSc in Sensory Integration from the University of Ulster.
Ema is the founder of WonderKids, a dedicated paediatric centre in Malta offering occupational therapy, sensory integration therapy, and speech and language therapy.
Learn more: About Ema Bartolo
Helpful Resources for Parents
Explore our library of articles written specifically for parents in Malta:
- Creating a Sensory Diet for Your Child
- Sensory Processing and Sleep
- Screen Time and Child Development
- Handwriting Readiness
- Calming Strategies for Children
- Preparing Your Child for Primary School
- Sensory-Friendly Tips for Family Events in Malta
- The Importance of Outdoor Play in Malta
Book an Assessment
If you are concerned about your child’s development, do not wait. Early intervention makes a significant difference.
Contact us today:
- Phone: +356 9987 2936
- Email: [email protected]
- Visit: wonderkids.mt